WO2009095658A1

WO2009095658A1 - A monitoring system

Info

Publication number: WO2009095658A1
Application number: PCT/GB2009/000231
Authority: WO
Inventors: Simon Edward Goldup; Miles Richard Macintosh Pennington; Charanjit Singh Nandra
Original assignee: Stream Products One Limited
Priority date: 2008-01-28
Filing date: 2009-01-27
Publication date: 2009-08-06
Also published as: GB2456832A; GB0801502D0

Abstract

This invention relates to a unified set of modules comprising a plurality of behaviour monitoring modules (20 to 130) for monitoring user behaviour in relation to environmental impact and for outputting information relating to the monitored user behaviour, wherein each of said plurality of behaviour monitoring modules comprises: at least one behaviour data collecting device (160) for collecting behaviour indicating data relating to user behaviour; data storage means (153) for storing program data providing at least one calculation function for calculating a behavioural output on the basis of behaviour indicating data; data processing means (152) for applying said at least one calculation routine for calculating one or more behavioural outputs based on behaviour indicating data collected by said behaviour collecting device (160); and output means (154, 158, 159) for outputting monitoring information based on the one or more calculated behavioural outputs, wherein the set of modules (20 to 130) includes a plurality of different types of module, each respective type of module being adapted for monitoring a different user behaviour.

Description

A Monitoring System

The present invention relates to a monitoring system, and particularly to an environmental impact assessment system that encourages behavioural change to reduce both the consumption of natural resources and the human impact on the environment. Concern about the environment is a major worldwide concern. Climate change, global warming, the consumption of resources (oil, metals, timber, etc.) and the general degradation of the earth's ecosystems cause particular concern. There is a growing ground swell of interest from people about the environment and national governments are increasingly under pressure to set targets and achieve a reduction in the impact on the environment that society creates. This is a difficult challenge as negative impacts on the environment can occur across a broad spectrum of areas, market sectors, geographical locations and even times of the year. It has become difficult to comprehend where to apply efforts to get the most benefit.

Almost a half of the UK's carbon dioxide emissions actually come from energy used every day - at home and through travel. To generate that energy, fossil fuels (coal, oil and gas) are burned that produce greenhouse .gases - in particular carbon dioxide (CO₂). Cars are a huge problem but more CO₂ comes from household energy consumption. The average household creates around 6 tonnes of CO₂ a year, and it is that same CO₂ that is responsible for climate change and damage to the environment. In 2005, total UK CO₂ emissions were almost 554 million tonnes. 27% (153 million tonnes) of those emissions came from the energy used to heat, light and power homes. Transport emissions from passenger cars, buses, mopeds and motorcycles accounted for a further 15% (85 million tonnes) of CO₂ emissions.

Consequently it has been suggested that it may be most comprehensible if people were to look at their own personal contribution to environmental impact particularly in their own domestic scenario. Additionally, environmental impact from the home is not only limited to energy consumption. The use of water, food (and resulting waste food), recycling of materials (e.g. packaging), travel (e.g. by car) and many other factors all need to be taken into account when assessing the environmental impact of a particular domestic situation. Thus even at the household level the complex nature of modern lifestyles means that it is very difficult for people to understand how to reduce their environmental impact. Devices or systems that enable individuals or families to understand their impact on the environment and encourage them to reduce their impact have an important part to play in the improvement of the environmental picture. However, in order to achieve a truly holistic understanding of a household's environmental impact it is necessary to be able to monitor a series of differing resource uses, for example, electricity, water, waste, travel, and others, and collate the results of that monitoring in such a manner that they can be presented to the user in a useful way. In order to monitor widely across such a diverse range of usages an intelligent and centralized system would be required, preferably one that has multiple sensors with different specifications such that they can gather data on the diverse range of target issues. The data from these sensors would all need to be routed back to a single centralized data source for it to be convenient for the users to view all the information.

Currently there are no commercially available domestic systems that fully and centrally monitor all of a household's energy and resource consumption. There are some systems and proposed systems that are capable of monitoring one or several of the resources used in the home. An example is the Ewgeco meter (www.ewgeco.coni), which will monitor electricity, water and gas consumption in real-time and display the results on LCD Displays. The Ewgeco meter is described in UK patent application No. 0617147.4. When electricity and gas appliances are turned on or water is running, coloured bars will light up one by one going from green to amber then red. As usage increases, Ewgeco leaves a marker for the highest daily usage point. This shows how much energy is being used in a visible way. Using lights that change from green to amber to red, the user can see at a glance how much energy is being consumed. The more a particular resource is used, the more the lights will change. The objective of the Ewgeco monitoring device is to raise awareness of energy consumption, which helps control and reduce the user's electricity, fuel and water bills. However this system has several drawbacks; firstly in order to monitor the overall usage of water, gas and electricity it is required to tap into the main electricity supply cable or gas or water pipe of the household - this requires expert assistance. Secondly, although the device monitors usage of certain resources, it does not attempt to translate the usage into an easy to understand environmental impact assessment and is limited to providing the user with understanding about their utility use. Thirdly, whilst operating in real time this product does little more then bring the utility meters into one central location and how usage is affected by individuals throughout the household operating differing appliances or using different resources is difficult to comprehend. The total resource use is actually a combination of piecemeal use through the house and the impact of individual items on the total is not discernable from the central monitor.

There are also other simpler products for monitoring energy consumption, for example the "Owl", which is a wireless electricity meter that is sold by 2saveenergy pic. This device shows users how much electricity they waste in their homes, whilst highlighting the money they can save as a result. The "Owl" monitors the home's electricity supply and provides real-time monetary information about the household's energy usage. When lights and appliances are turned on, the "Owl's" LCD monitor reveals exactly how much electricity is being used, how the cost of electricity per hour changes, and the amount of harmful CO₂ emissions the home is producing. By turning off appliances when not in use, or when they are being used needlessly, UK consumers can actually save up to 25% of their electricity usage - a saving that translates directly to reducing their monthly bills and households' harmful carbon emissions. The fact that the "Owl" product only monitors electricity use means that it is limited in view of the fact that environmental impact is caused by a large range of factors. In addition, the "Owl" system requires a central monitoring point (usually the supply point to the home). This requires a relatively complex installation process and requires a system that allows communication to a more convenient location for viewing of the information.

The diversity of factors that add up to the full environmental impact of a household is very wide and it is perhaps this that is the greatest challenge to any system for monitoring environmental impact.

Another challenge facing environmental impact monitoring systems is the communication of collected data to the user. The wide range of factors that need to be monitored means that there is a large range of measuring units to be taken into account. For example, electricity consumption is measured in units (one unit is equal to 1000 watts of electricity used for 1 hour), water consumption in litres, gas consumption in cubic feet, car usage is measured in terms of the litres of fuel per mile of the journey concerned and/or the exhaust emissions. Some of these measurement units are well defined quantifiable units that are understood by scientists and engineers but they are only understood to limited extent by ordinary household users, particularly child users. Other usages of resources, for example, food miles, food or packaging waste and implementation of recycling are even less comprehensible.

Furthermore it is important for users to not only understand their actual usage of resources and the corresponding environmental impact but also how that usage compares to both their own historical usage and also to the usage of other similar, smaller or larger households.

A further challenge regarding the issue of data communication is that of where the data can be viewed. Whilst it is preferable to allow data to be gathered and viewed from a central location, from a user's perspective it is also key that usage measurement is clearly visible at the location of use of that resource, i.e. at the point of consumption. The objective of measurement of usage and showing environmental impacts is to empower and encourage users to reduce that impact.

Psychologically, it is most powerful if the usage and measurement feedback occur at the same time at the location of resource use to reinforce the action and its consequences.

An additional user requirement is that the system requires minimal effort to use. There is a wide range of information to gather and the relationship between usage and environmental impact is complex; therefore, the device needs to be simple and clear to use so as to encourage the users to interact with the system and to be challenged and motivated to change their behaviour, their use of resources and their environmental impact.

Naturally any environmental impact assessment system needs not only to monitor and record data but also inform the user what consequence the actions relating to the usage of that resource has.

Information exchange, education or other transfer of knowledge is required that allows the users of the system to appreciate the overview of the local, national and global events and all pertinent issues to do with environmental change and protection.

In accordance with one aspect of the present invention, there is provided a unified set of modules as defined in Claim 1. The provision of a plurality of behaviour monitoring modules enables the user to monitor usage of a range of particular resources and encourages them through understanding and information feedback to reduce the usage of those resources and hence overall environmental impact.

Other aspects of the present invention are defined in Claims 17, 31, 43, 54 and 64. Further features and advantages of the invention will become apparent from the following description of preferred embodiments of the invention, given by way of example only, which is made with reference to the accompanying drawings.

Fig. 1 shows a schematic diagram of a monitoring system according to the invention;

Fig. 2 shows a flow diagram outlining steps carried out by the monitoring system of Figure 1; Figs. 3 to 6 show first, second, third and fourth behaviour monitoring modules, respectively, for use in the system of Figure 1;

Fig. 7 shows a flow diagram outlining the steps carried out by the behaviour monitoring module of Fig. 6;

Figs. 8 to 15 show fifth, sixth, seventh, eighth, ninth, tenth, eleventh and twelfth behaviour monitoring modules, respectively, for use in the system of Figure 1;

Fig. 16 shows a handheld common data transfer unit for use in the system of Figure 1;

Fig. 17 is an illustrative representation of the components of a monitoring module; and

Fig. 18 is an illustrative representation of the components of a data transfer unit.

Referring now to Fig. 1, there is depicted a monitoring system 1 with a number of individual behaviour monitoring modules 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120 and 130 arranged within or around a user's home 18. Each behaviour monitoring module monitors the usage of a particular resource.

The behaviour monitoring modules include but are not limited to:an electricity monitor 20; a lighting monitor 30; a shower monitor 40; a car journey monitor 50; a heating monitor 60; a walking monitor (not shown); a cycle (or scooter) monitor 70; a water monitor 80; a fridge monitor 90; a toilet flush monitor 100; a bath monitor 110; a food miles monitor 120; and a recycling monitor 130.

The behaviour monitoring modules form a set and have at least one unifying characteristic, such as a common physical characteristic. For example, each of the behaviour monitoring modules could be enclosed in a human or animal-shaped housing. Similarly, the behaviour monitoring modules are differentiated from one another to some extent to allow easy identification of the module required for monitoring a particular resource. In the case of animal-shaped casings, a different animal could be used for each different behaviour monitoring module. The behaviour monitoring modules could each have a different colour or pattern on their casing.

Each of the behaviour monitoring modules is intended to be used at or very near the point of consumption of the resource in question; each module will be described in more detail below.

The user is in possession of a handheld common data transfer unit in the form of a reader 11, which is a device which can upload data from each one of the behaviour monitoring modules 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120 and 130. The uploading of user behaviour data through a data transfer system 12 could be carried out via a direct cable connection, via a wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or via a manual data input from the user, for example in the form of a code. The reader device 11 stores all user behaviour data 12 gathered from the behaviour monitoring modules 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120 and 130, and can display usage results via a graphical user interface. Additionally the user can take the reader 11 to a personal computer 14 and transfer the data 13. The transfer of the data 13 from the reader 11 to the personal computer 14 could be carried out via a direct cable connection (for example, via a USB, Firewire, serial connection, etc.), via a wireless connection (for example, via infrared, radio or other technology), or via a manual data input from the user, for example, the reader 11 device could display data, either encoded or not, and the user could manually enter this into the personal computer 14. The purpose of uploading data is so that it can be analysed further and/or transferred via a network connection 15 to an internet accessible site based on a remote server 16. This server 16 not only hosts the site but also stores data from the user. Users from a plurality of households 18 access this site and transfer data 17 from their behaviour monitoring modules via readers. The internet site enables users to note their success (or not) of reducing environmental impact by being able to see their usage of various resources visually via graphical diagrams, numerical tables or other displays or feedback. Additionally the networked nature of the system means that users may also compare their success or usage against that of other users. As well as comparing individuals against individuals the system also allows groups of users to be grouped together in differing criteria (e.g. location, family size, etc.) such that additional group to group comparisons can be made. Such features are not only enlightening for the users to understand their relative usage but also establish a competitive nature to the system further helping to assist in reducing users' environmental impact.

The networked connections may be present in differing forms. For example, it is possible that the behaviour monitoring modules 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120 and 130 are not linked via a reader 11 nor to a personal computer 14 or the internet and remote server 16 and that they work as stand alone units monitoring the users' resource use. Furthermore, it is possible that the behaviour monitoring modules 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120 and 130 are linked via data transfer system 12 to a reader 11 but not to a personal computer 14 or the internet and remote server 16. In such a case, the reader 11 becomes the core data recorder for the system and will record all data to create comparative historical usage charts, diagrams, or other displays that would then be shown on the reader 11. In addition, it is possible that the behaviour monitoring modules 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120 and 130 are linked to the reader 11, which in turn links to a personal computer 14 (but not the internet or remote sever 16). On the personal computer 14 there would be software installed which allows the users to record and analyse the data taken.

A further variation is that the behaviour monitoring modules 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120 and 130 are linked via a reader 11 and personal computer 14 and then via the internet to a remote server 16 but that access or viewing of data from other users is not possible.

The system could also exist without the reader 11. In such a case behaviour monitoring modules 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120 and 130 would output data either encoded or not encoded and the user would manually transfer these to their personal computer 14 for storage and analysis. However, such a system would limit the volume of data transfer possible and therefore the accuracy and usefulness of the data gathered. Alternatively, the behaviour monitoring modules 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120 and 130 could transfer their data directly to the personal computer 14 for storage and analysis via a cable or wireless system.

A distinct advantage of the system as shown in Figure 1 is that the data transfer can be both ways. Thus, not only is data transferred from the behaviour monitoring modules 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120 and 130 to the reader 11 to the personal computer 14 to the remote server 16, but it could also be transferred from the remote server 16 to the personal computer 14 to the reader 11 to the behaviour monitoring modules 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120 and 130 or any one or combination of those links. There are a number of scenarios where this might be of use; for example, transfer of other users' usage rates to set examples and be targets for the primary users, to load new communication messages from the company organising the system, or to transfer new graphics, text or other interface software to the various devices, in particular to the reader 11 and the behaviour monitoring modules 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120 and 130.

Figure 2 shows a flow diagram outlining steps carried out by the monitoring system 1. The behaviour monitoring modules 20, 30, 40, 50, 60, 70, 80, 90, 100, 110, 120 and 130 are all intended to be used at or very near the point of consumption of the resource in question. For example, the electricity module 20 would have a sensor located between the electricity outlet socket and the plug of the appliance being monitored. The module 20 would be either attached to the sensor via a cable (perhaps about 1 metre long) or connected wirelessly and be positioned close to the appliance being monitored. The lighting module 30 would be placed where it could easily be seen in a room where the lights are typically left on when nobody is in the room. The shower module 40 would be installed in a shower cubicle, on the side wall, typically by means of a sucker in a place where both water would splash down onto the device and where the module 40 could detect if the user was in the shower or not. The car journey module 50 would be attached to a place where a passenger could easily view and interact with the behaviour monitoring module, for example, the dashboard, or one of the side windows or from the back of the head rests or clipped to the passenger seatbelt anchor. The heating module 60 would be attached to a radiator or heating pipe, most typically in a room which is often used. The walking module would be similar to a standard pedometer and would be worn on the user's belt, or attached to trousers, a skirt or other piece of clothing. Alternatively, the walking monitor could be included internally as part of the handheld common data transfer unit. The cycle module 70 would be attached to the handle bars of a bicycle so the user could easily read the display. The water module 80 would be strapped to a tap most used in the household, for example the bathroom or kitchen cold tap. The fridge module 90 would be placed standing on one of the fridge shelves such that when the fridge door was opened the behaviour monitoring module could be viewed easily or, alternatively, it could be placed on the outside of the door and connected to a sensor internally via a cable or other wireless technology. The toilet flush module 100 would be placed on, above or near the cistern of the toilet such that it could easily be seen. The bath module 110 would be placed on the side of the bath such that it could easily be seen. The food miles module 120 would be placed in the kitchen either on the outside of the fridge door or on the counter top or other place such that it could easily be seen. The recycling module 130 would be placed on the side of the containers used for storing the recycling items or other waste in question and such that it could easily be seen.

Once placement location is decided, installation is very simple and the module can be started. The first step in use is user data entry. This is required for internal calculations on environmental impact. The type of information input at this stage is dependent on the particular behaviour monitoring module in question. For example, in the case of the shower module 40, the module 40 needs to know the number of people in the household who use the shower, the time of day, the day/date and the type of shower.

Following input of user data an initialisation process is carried out. This is to ensure that the sensor is working and that the module is operating correctly.

After completion of the initialisation process, there is a monitoring period. This is an important element of the functionality of the behaviour monitoring module as it is key that the user attempts to improve their own behaviour rather then match an arbitrary national average or non- pertinent benchmark. For example, in the case of the shower monitor 40, the monitoring period would last for 1 or 2 weeks and the module 40 would monitor and record the number and duration of the showers taken. During this period the graphical user interface on the behaviour monitoring module would keep users engaged and interested. Once the monitoring period is completed, the module will have collected useful data to set targets to encourage the family to reduce their environmental impact. For example in the illustrative example of the shower module 40 the device would have recorded (in the week):

TOTAL SHOWER TIME (minutes) = Tm e.g. 169 minutes TOTAL NUMBER OF SHOWERS = Tn e.g. 33

From this an average shower time can be calculated.

AVERAGE SHOWER TIME = As e.g. 169 / 33 = 5.1 minutes

The next stage in the functional activity is that targets are set for the next stage, known as the "challenge period". The module uses a mathematical formula based on the commonly known exponential decay to set targets for the next minor time periods. It is important that the targets set objectives that are:-

1. Specific (a clearly communicated target, for example 40%). 2. Significant & challenging (for example, 40% reduction not 5% reduction).

3. Motivational (high reduction target during early periods when change is easiest, reducing to low reduction targets during later periods when change is harder).

4. Realistic (it would not be the goal to set unachievable levels in the targets). 5. Rewarding (if the targets are achieved then rewards are distributed by the system).

6. Time-based (there will be a limit to achieve the results, for example, 20 weeks).

7. Tangible (the user can appreciate the change in the behaviour and congratulate themselves on a reduced environmental impact).

8. Trackable (the behaviour monitoring module needs to be able to keep a record of the usage during the challenge period).

In the illustrative example of the shower module the formula to calculate the target reduction in average shower time is:

Aw = Tm (l+R(expt(-kw) - 1)) where:- w = week number (since monitoring week ended); Aw = target average hower time for week w; Tm = total shower time during monitoring week; R = reduction total (for example, 40% = 0.4); exp = exponential; K = exponential offset constant (e.g. 0.1)

In this case the targets would result in: 16% reduction target in weeks 0 - 5; 10% reduction target in weeks 5 - 10; 6% reduction target in weeks 10 - 15; 4% reduction target in weeks 15 — 20. Once the targets have been calculated the module then enters the challenge period.

During the challenge period the user faces the challenge of attempting to reduce their environmental impact based on the resource they are using. In the illustrative example above, the user has a target to reduce their average shower time from 5.1 minutes to 4.9 minutes in the first week. In order to encourage the user and to communicate the target the graphical user interface on the behaviour monitoring module is employed to display, to inform, to entertain and motivate the user. Each person using the shower then has to complete the shower in the calculated target time. Although this is to the benefit of those people who had short showers (they can have longer ones) and to the detriment of those who had long showers (they have to have short ones) it reflects fairly across the family. Each time the shower is used the behaviour monitoring module 40 shows animations, including a timer that highlights the length of shower use; it can be a shower timer in one sense and a countdown clock in another. These animations should be a visual indication of how much water is being used by the shower. This could be diagrammatic or a simple animation that represents water use, such as a swimming character having less room to move as the screen fills up with water. As time elapses there will be visual and audible reminders of either how long the user has left or how long the user has already been in the shower. Once the shower time exceeds the target, the behaviour monitoring module 40 will start to make visual and audible reminders, indicating that the user is entering a period of negative water use.

The total challenge period is broken down into minor time periods (for example, 1 week). At the end of each of the minor time periods the monitored usage data is compared to the target set and depending on the relationship between the actual data and the target data a score is applied according to the scoring formula below. For example the scoring formula for the illustrative example of the shower monitor is: S = D x Sm where: S = Score (units); D = monitored data; and Sm = Score multiplier The score multiplier is calculated according to the following rules: if D > Tw x 2 then Sm = -10 (this sets the lowest score multiplier) if D < Tw x 0.5 then Sm = 100 (this sets the highest score multiplier) if Tw * 0.5 < D < Tw * 2 then: Sm = A (D - F Tw)² + Sm_min, where: Sm = Score multiplier A = multiplier gradient (controls shape of quadratic)

D = monitored data

F = multiplier to fix upper threshold of Sm (e.g. 2)

Tw = target for time period w Sm_mj_n = minimum score multiplier (e.g. -10) Note: the vertex of the quadratic is a point (FTw, Sm_mj_n).

There are a number of ways of calculating the score. The key reason for adopting this particular approach is to reward the user with increasingly higher scores the closer they get to the target and if the user manages to surpass their target they are rewarded even further. There is a multitude of alternative equations that also could be used to give similar results. At certain times the user can chose to upload data from the behaviour monitoring modules to their reader 11, and thus from the reader 11 onto a personal computer 14 and then to the remote server 16. The scores from the resource usage would then be used to calculate rewards, such as extra functionality on the internet site or real world rewards such as, but not limited to gifts or prizes or discounts or other monetary rewards for the user's actions. Reward for achieving the objective of reduced environmental impact through reduced resource usage is a key element of the invention. At certain times the user can chose to upload data (including scores and timings of those scores) from the behaviour monitoring modules to their reader 11, and thus from the reader 11 onto a personal computer 14 and then to the remote server 16. This data is then available for viewing through an internet site running on the remote server 16. The overall purpose of uploading the data to be shown on the internet site is to help achieve the primary goal of the invention, which is to create an environmental impact assessment system, a system that encourages behavioural change (reduction) in the consumption of resources and the impact on the environment. The simple message that the data conveys is primarily a score based upon the behavioural improvement measured through the behaviour monitoring modules:

High score = lowering resource use = lowering environmental impact A secondary purpose of uploading the data to the internet site is to reward the user. As stated above, the scores provide an indicator of change in behaviour and this in itself is a kind of reward but the system also allows for a wide range and flexible application of other types of reward for high scoring users. Reward for achieving the objective of reduced environmental impact through reduced resource usage is a key element of the invention.

A third purpose of uploading the data to the internet site is to create a competitive element to the system for individual users to compete against themselves, for individual users to compete against other users, for groups of individuals to compete against themselves (to better their scores as a group) and for groups of individuals to compete as a group against other groups of individuals.

The score data is utilised on the internet site in the following ways to create rewards for the user and foster a competitive environment. Some of the examples are simple displays of the score values and some are rewards that are issued once certain score values have been reached. This example list is not exhaustive:

1. Each user has a personal score sheet page on which they and other users can view the following:- a. Cumulative scores earned from each individual behaviour monitoring module. The reward is one of personal satisfaction from achieving a good score. The competitive element is that users want to have earned a high score on each behaviour monitoring module, particularly higher than their peers. b. Cumulative scores earned from all behaviour monitoring modules that the user is using (a total score). The reward is one of personal satisfaction from achieving a good total score. The competitive element is users want to have earned a high total score and a higher total score than their peers. c. Other scores earned within the internet site and not related to the behaviour monitoring module outputs. Examples are: i. Cumulative scores earned from games and from partaking in games on the internet site.

Cumulative scores earned from the internet site tasks or activity section where users are asked to complete tasks or activities and they are scored on their response to those tasks or activities and also the number of tasks and activities they partake or complete. ii. Cumulative scores earned from the internet site quizzes and number of quizzes completed . iii. Cumulative scores earned from the internet site challenges and number of challenges completed. The reward is one of personal satisfaction of achieving a good score from a range of elements. The competitive element is that users want to have earned a high score and a higher score than their peers. d. That the user's ranking changes as they reach certain cumulative score amounts. Each of the ranks has a particular title. As an illustrative example the titles are:

10,000 points scored = Eco-Novice 20,000 points scored = Eco-Beginner 30,000 points scored = Eco-Learner 40,000 points scored = Eco-Detective 50,000 points scored = Eco- Warrior

The personal score sheet also shows the timeframes of their ranking promotions. The reward for high scores is a higher ranking and the personal satisfaction of achievement. The competitive element is that users want to gain a high ranking, particularly a higher ranking than their peers, and achieve promotion faster than their peers.

In one embodiment the internet site could take the form of a virtual world. In that case each of the users has a character or avatar that lives in the virtual world. The happiness or health of their avatar would then be dependent upon the user's score. The happiness or health of their avatar would be shown either through the animated behaviour of the avatar (i.e. if the avatar is unwell its movement is slow, their expression appears sad, etc.) or through a score table where happiness and health level are numerically displayed. The reward would be the personal satisfaction of looking after a virtual creature. The competitive element is that users want a happy and healthy avatar and want a happier and healthier aviator than their peers.

A special reward is awarded to the user when they have reached certain score milestones. These special rewards are virtual elements that can improve enjoyment of the virtual world on the internet site and they may be elements that improve the environment of that virtual world. As an illustrative example: a. For each 15,000 points scored a virtual world tree is awarded. b. At 50,000 points the weather improves: it becomes sunny 75% not 50% of the time in the virtual world. c. For each 100,000 points scored the landscape of the virtual world grows a multitude of flowers and plants.

The reward is in the awarding of the special rewards for high scores and the satisfaction in improving the virtual world that the user has helped create through their own real world actions. The competitive element is that users want to improve their virtual world and have a better virtual world than their peers.

On reaching certain score milestones users are allocated a pass that provides access to increased functionality of the internet site. As an illustrative example, the user may be rewarded a passport in the virtual world for their avatar to go travelling to other venues around the virtual world. The reward is the ability to gain access to further functionality on the internet site and the satisfaction of achieving this, as well as the benefit of additional learning. The competitive element is that users want to access the greater functionality of the virtual world and want to access more functionality than their peers.

On reaching certain score milestones information can be downloaded from the internet site to the reader 11 that amends the functionality of the reader 11. As an illustrative example it may mean that: a. New graphic user interfaces (for example, new animated characters or new improved environments) appear on the reader 11. b. The user can play new games on the reader 11. c. New sounds are emitted from the reader 11. d. The reader 11 displays different information (for example, environmental information).

In the virtual world on the internet site, users are rewarded a form of virtual money depending upon their scores. Users can use this virtual money in virtual shops to purchase virtual products for their avatar and the avatar's home. The reward is that with more virtual money the user can purchase items that improve the virtual world and therefore there is personal satisfaction in helping to create a better world through real world actions. As an additional reward there is the personal satisfaction for the user of being able to personalise their avatar and their avatar's virtual world. The competitive element is that users want their avatar and their avatar's world to appear superior to their peers' avatars.

The scores may also be used to create actual real world gifts or prizes or real world discounts or other monetary rewards for the user's actions. The reward is real world monetary benefit. The competitive element is that users want to gain more real world monetary benefits.

Depending on the scores, printouts can be created from the internet site that can be shown to others or displayed. As an illustrative example these print outs could be: a. Certificates stating that they have been promoted from one personal ranking to another higher one. b. Certificates showing what special rewards have been accumulated. c. Certificates showing that a behaviour monitoring module has been registered on the internet site. d. Certificates showing that a behaviour monitoring module has measured an excellent level of behavioural change. e. Internet site graphical images, for example, official passports allowing avatars to travel in the virtual world or snapshot virtual photographs of the user's virtual world. f. Educational information about different environmental issues and regions within the virtual world or real world.

The reward is a real world artefact (the printouts). The competitive element comes from the public display of the achievements of the user. Scores and rewards are partly used to create a competitive element to the internet site as shown above. There may be other competitive elements involved in using the internet site. For example, other competitive elements may be as simple as: a. How long the user has been registered on the internet site. b. How many behaviour monitoring modules they have registered. c. How much virtual money they have.

Not only does the internet site allow competition on an individual basis but additionally each of the users can interact with other users on the internet site to create a broader competitive environment within the virtual world where each user has an ability to compete with others as a group based on the combined outputs from their behaviour monitoring modules or reader 11. As there is a certain level of information held about each user, the groups could be formed in a number of different ways. The information is gathered on initial application where users must complete a registration process that includes asking questions about: a. Age b. Postcode c. Country d. School, class at school, year of school if applicable e. Gender f. Membership of selected groups or clubs g. Personal interests From the answers to these questions, users can be formed into different groups and each group's scores use can be compared to other groups' scores on the internet site. As an illustrative example, users from Town A could compare themselves with users from Town B.

An additional benefit of grouping the individuals is that it allows the best users within a selected group to be allocated further reward for their scores. For example, the top five users in a particular area are awarded special rewards for being in the top five. The competitive element is that users will want to be the best and will be motivated to try to increase their scores from their behaviour monitoring modules. The groups themselves can also be judged in the same manner. For example, the top five groups in a certain criteria (for example, top five towns in Britain) could be awarded additional rewards as per the individual system above. All of the data both for individual and groups can be represented in a multitude of ways, for example: a. Graphs (line, bar, pie, etc.). b. League tables (ranking, top 40, scorecards, etc.). c. Geographical location and scoring shown on regional maps. d. Other graphical or illustrative depiction.

The above elements illustrate how the system applies scores to the usage of a particular resource. It also illustrates how the users can be rewarded for achieving good scores and finally it also shows how elements of competition can be applied to encourage further improvement of those scores. These three elements of score, reward and competition are intended to create a long term interest in the system and to achieve the primary goal of the invention, which is to reduce the impact humans are having on their own environment. Figure 3 shows a behaviour monitoring module in the form of an electricity module 20. Its fundamental function is to measure the amount of power being used at any given time. From this the environmental impact, for example, the amount of CO2 produced to create the energy being used is calculated and recorded. This information is used to suggest targets for reducing energy consumption. The electricity module 20 contains a single sensor which is enclosed in a sensor enclosure 29 and measures the amount of electricity which the monitored device is using. The monitored device may be a single appliance or several appliances powered through a single power distribution unit (PDU) to which the module 20 is attached. There are three types of sensors which are capable of being utilised in this behaviour monitoring module. One is an induction coil which is placed around the live or neutral cable of the appliance/power distribution unit being monitored. This picks up a current by inductive transmission via the electromagnetic field of the current flowing to the target appliance or PDU. This current can be measured and translated into power using Ohm's law and the basic power formula (V=IR and P=VI). Another method is to use a high power and low value resistor (for example, 1 ohm) and place this in series with the live cable to the appliance or PDU being monitored. The voltage drop across the resistor is then measured and then again using Ohm's law, the module can calculate the power being consumed. The third method is to use a Hall effect sensor which varies its output voltage in relation to the magnetic field created by, for example, the live or neutral feed into the appliance/power distribution unit being monitored. Each of these methods enables the device to measure in real-time the power (in Watts) being used by the appliance.

The module 20 is illustrated in the form of a glow worm in Figure 3 but the module could take any shape.

The module 20 is sold in product packaging and comes with full instructions for use and a uniquely coded registration card enabling the user to register their module on a specific internet site accessible on a remote server or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The module 20 has a screen 21 and a pair of input switches 22,27. The module 20 is largely contained in a shaped moulded plastic casing 23 and has a battery enclosure 24 for storing batteries, which are used as a power supply. There is a speaker 25 on the module 20 and a reset switch 26. An electric cable 28 connects the module 20 to a sensor enclosure 29. After purchase the user initiates the module 20. First the module 20 is turned on by removing a battery isolating strip. The module 20 then requests some data input (the kind of data is required is displayed on the screen 21 and the data is entered through input switches 22 and 27). The data inputted into the module 20 includes the number of people occupying the house, the date, time and chosen language. The user then has personalisation options such as the ability to name their module 20 or to choose from a range of on-screen characters that appear during the animations and other graphic user interfaces (GUI).

The user can then install the module 20. The module 20 is connected by the trailing wire 28 to an adaptor containing the electricity measuring sensor. The adaptor is installed in a normal household electricity socket and the appliance to be monitored (or PDU) is plugged into the module adaptor to enable the flow of electricity to be measured.

Once the flow of electricity is detected, the user is prompted to enter data relating to the type of appliance that is being monitored, for example, kettle, computer, stereo etc. An option is given for the monitoring of multiple appliances via a PDU. The number of appliances and type can be entered. The module 20 sits on any horizontal surface, ideally a table top or shelf. The final element of initialisation is that the user is prompted by the GUI or an emitted sound to register their module 20 either via the reader 11 or through a personal computer 14 to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. This can be done by a direct cable connection, wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or through a manual user input using the uniquely coded registration card.

Once initialised and installed, the module 20 enters the monitoring period for the selected appliance or group of appliances (appliances can be changed after successful reduction in energy use). This period lasts for a pre-determined period and could be between 1-2 days in duration. During this period electricity usage for the appliance is monitored, recorded and at the end of the period, targets are calculated for the following time periods. The target reduction is predetermined, for example, 20% reduction in environmental impact.

Once the monitoring period is over the module 20 starts to observe everyday electricity use. The module 20 would typically be in stand-by mode when the appliance is not being used (if the module 20 has not been used for a period of 10 minutes then it enters stand-by mode and nothing is shown on the screen to save power). The module 20 can also detect bleeding electricity, for example, when an electrical appliance has been switched to stand-by but is still drawing electricity. During this time an animation sequence will be displayed on the GUI (graphical user interface) to alert the user to the fact that electricity is still being used.

Once the appliance is switched on a wake up sound or animation sequence is displayed. Once that sequence has completed further animations are displayed that represent the flow of electricity through the appliance. During the monitoring period the average consumption of electricity was measured over the set period of time, and a measurement of electricity consumption that is a calculated percentage less than that monitored is calculated and used as a target. That target amount of electricity remaining is displayed on the GUI in the form of numerical data in Watts and is also simultaneously or separately represented in the form of an animation (for example, a bat and ball game where bricks represent energy and as energy is used bricks are destroyed by the ball or a character cycling, the more energy used the harder the character finds it to cycle - the more powerful the appliance the faster the character has to cycle). As energy is consumed throughout the day various animations are displayed and sounds are emitted that represent key stages, for example: ³A remaining; Vz remaining; ¹A remaining, etc.

Together with these animations, information educating the user about the environmental impact is displayed (including the amount of CO2 that is being used).

In order to keep the module 20 entertaining and interesting, there would also be random special event GUI's shown as various points during use. The goal is to keep the user involved in the module 20. Certain noises could also be emitted that alert the user to key points.

As the target amount of energy comes close to being depleted, noises and animations will become more frequent and intense to warn the user. Once the target amount of energy has been used and the appliance is still switched on then the user will enter a period of negative use and animations will be displayed to represent this. It is also possible that the module 20 could be programmed to switch the power supply off automatically once this point has been passed.

At the end of the day a score is calculated. If the target has been reached a set amount of points will be awarded, for example, 500 points. If the user has not fully used the target amount of energy bonus points will be awarded, for example: 5% remaining = 100 point; 10% remaining = 200 points; 15 % remaining = 300 points, etc.

Inversely if the user has used more than the target amount of energy, points will be deducted, for example: 5% extra = -100 point; 10% extra = -200 points; 15% extra = -300 points, etc. The scores are stored in the module's memory along with the type of appliance that was used.

When a new appliance is installed a new set of scores is recorded for that appliance. These can be alternated, for example, if the user wishes to switch from a new appliance back to a previously used appliance this can be selected with the input switches. The data recorded and scores will continue from when the previous appliance was last used. At some pre-determined time period (or period of the user's choice) a data transfer request

GUI is shown on the screen 21 and/or the speaker 25 could make an audible request to have data transferred to the user's central reader 11 or direct into the user's personal computer 14 linked to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The user can then transfer all the recorded electricity usage data stored on the module 20 to the user's central reader 11 or personal computer 14 via a direct cable connection, a wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or via manual data input by the user. There may be situations where unusual activity is recorded by the module; this may be because of legitimate or absent-minded reasons or because of an attempt to cheat the system. The module 20 is programmed with some responses in the case of detecting such unusual activity. For example, the user could try to swap to an appliance that uses less electricity to attain a higher score. To prevent this, if the module 20 is unplugged from the appliance at any time it will automatically give the choice to reset for use with another appliance using the reset switch 26 or continue with the original chosen appliance. If the option of continuing with the original appliance is chosen but a new appliance is installed the module 20 will be able to detect the change by the amount of power being drawn. The module 20 will then display animations to warn the user of this or simply reset and start a new monitoring period for the new appliance.

Figure 4 shows a lighting module 30, which monitors and records the amount of time that a light has been left on in a room and there is nobody in the room. From this the environmental impact, for example the amount of CO₂ produced by that wasteful action, is calculated and recorded. The lighting module 30 has two sensors. One sensor can detect light but there are different approaches to specifying this light sensor. In one instance a simple and cheap sensor may be used (for example, a light dependent resistor). Such a device cannot detect the difference between daylight and artificial light so an internal processor within the device calculates and makes a decision on whether the light sensed by the sensor is daylight or artificial light, based on data of the sunrise and sunset times of that location. Alternatively filters can be put in front of the light sensors to enable them to differentiate between light types or more expensive and complex light sensors can be used that can detect the difference between daylight and artificial light. A second alternative is that the module is placed very close to the light source (for example, clipped to the lamp shade) and calibrated by an initialisation sequence such that only high levels of light coming from that light source can trigger the sensor. The other sensor on the module detects whether there is person in the room or not. One way of doing this is through detecting movement (for example a passive infra red sensor could be used); this sensor detects if there is any movement within that room (or within range of the sensor) and the module assumes that such movement is caused by a person. An alternative is that the device uses a microphone and intelligent processing to detect the sound of a person in the room. Using the combination of these two sensors in combination with the module's on-board intelligent controller, the module can detect if the lights are on in a room and if there is someone there or not.

The module 30 is illustrated in the form of an owl in Figure 4 but the module 30 could take any shape.

The module 30 is sold in product packaging and comes with full instructions for use and a uniquely coded registration card enabling the user to register their module on a specific internet site accessible on a remote server or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The module 30 has a user presence detector 31, a screen 32 and a pair of input switches 33, 37. The module 30 is largely contained in a shaped plastic casing 36 and has a battery enclosure 34 for storing batteries, which are used as a power supply. There is a speaker 35 on the module 30 and a reset switch 38. A light dependent resistor 39 is also incorporated in the module 30.

After purchase the user initiates the module 30. First the module 30 is turned on by removing a battery isolating strip. The module 30 then requests some data input (the kind of data is required is displayed on the screen 32). The data inputted is the date, time, chosen language, the room in the house in which the module is positioned (the user can name the room), the time between the room being detected as empty and alarm activation (this is categorised in the instructions into 1 minute, 3 minutes, 5 minutes, 10 minutes, 15 minutes, 20 minutes, 30 minutes or no alarm), the period of time between alarm emissions (categorised into 5 minutes, 15 minutes, 30 minutes, 1 hour), how long the alarm sound is to be emitted (categorised as 1 second, 3 seconds, 5 seconds , 10 seconds, 15 seconds, 30 seconds, 1 minute), the number of bulbs on the main set of lights used most commonly and the choice of alarm sound. The user then has personalisation options such as the ability to name their module 30 or to choose from a range of on-screen characters that appear during the animations and other graphic user interfaces (GUI). The user can then install the device in the selected room (note: the device needs to be used in the room that corresponds to the user's inputted name, for example, "John's room"). Should the user wish to move the module 30 to a new room then the module 30 is to be reset and the initialisation process repeated. The module 30 can be installed anywhere in the room that allows the sensors to operate effectively. For example, the module 30 could be secured to the wall, possibly next to the light switch (using adhesive pads), positioned on a flat surface in the room (by means of a sucker pad or self-standing), or secured and positioned close to the light source (by clipping or hanging the module to a light shade or lamp stand).

The final element of initialisation is that the user is prompted by the GUI or an emitted sound to register their module either via the reader 11 or through a personal computer 14 to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. This can be done by a direct cable connection, wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or through a manual user input using the uniquely coded registration card.

Once initialised and installed the module 30 enters the monitoring period. This period lasts for a pre-determined time and could be between one to two weeks in duration. During this initial monitoring period the module 30 monitors and records the number of times, and for how long, a light is left on in the room with no one being in the room and the screen 32 and speaker 35 will display encouraging animation and sounds to indicate to the user that the module 30 is monitoring. At the end of the initial monitoring period targets are calculated for the following periods. The target decrease in the time that a light is left on in a room with no one being in the room is predetermined, for example, 40% in 20 weeks and the weekly targets are calculated as previously described.

Once the initial monitoring period is over the module 30 starts to monitor for subsequent periods the number of times, and for how long, a light is left on in the room with no-one being in the room. In an unoccupied room in which the lights are off, the module 30 would typically be in standby mode. On an ongoing basis the module 30 will enter stand-by mode after 5 minutes from activation and nothing is shown on screen 32 to save power. As stated previously, the module is initially activated or "woken up", when the module 30 can detect somebody in the room (whether the light is on or not). On detecting movement in the room and activating itself, the module 30 through the GUI screen 32 displays animation and/or the speaker 35 emits sounds to remind the users to turn off the light when they leave, as well as displaying up to date information of their module's own special score screen (see discussion below). Once activated, the animation and/or sounds emitted will continue for a minimum of 5 minutes, after which the module 30 enters stand-by mode and nothing is shown on the screen 32 to save power. Special score screens and GUI animation can also be viewed at any time should the user select to view it manually and on demand. Should the module 30 be positioned near the door exiting the room and should the module 30 detect a light on, if a user approaches the door/module 30, the module 30 can prompt the user to switch off the light through animations or displays on the screen 32 or by emitting sound. After 2 minutes of the module 30 detecting that a light is on but there has been no movement in the room the module 30 will start recording and storing this data. After a specific number of minutes (preset during initialisation) of the module 30 detecting that a light is on and there is no-one in the room, the module 30 will emit a sound/alarm to make the users aware of this situation. This sound/alarm will be emitted every preset number of minutes (set up during initialisation) until the light is turned off, someone enters the room or the light has been on with no-one in the room for 2 hours. On turning off the light (even if the module 30 can still detect someone in the room) the screen 32 would display some animation for a period of time and/or the module's speaker 35 would emit a variety of noises or a spoken message. The module 30 calculates the current score (in points) for the current monitoring period and the GUI displays this on a special score screen which also allows the users to compare their total usage this current monitoring period with their initial monitoring period, as well as to see if they are on, above or below targets set for them. This screen also shows the possible score the user could get should they hit the target that has been set relative to the initial monitoring week. Once this special score screen has been shown for 30 seconds the module 30 returns to stand-by mode. This special score screen can also be viewed should the user select to view it manually and on demand.

The score is inversely proportional to the environmental impact using the principle that the longer a light is left on (in time) the greater will be the overall environmental impact. The score is calculated by the following equation:

Score in points (S) = (1 - (LCfLM)) * 100, where: LM = Time during which the light is on but nobody is in the room in monitoring period LC = Time during which the light is on but nobody is in the room in current period The bonus score is a set score that the user is allocated should they hit their target, where:

Bonus score = the percentage reduction in resource usage, based on the initial monitoring period, which has been set as the target, for example, should a 20% reduction target be achieved this would result in a bonus 20 points scored. This score is stored in the module's memory and date-tagged for future reference. At some pre-determined time period data transfer request GUI is shown on the screen 32 and/or the speaker 35 could make an audible request to have data transferred to the user's central reader 11 or directly into the user's personal computer 14 linked to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The user can then transfer all the recorded light usage data stored on the module to the user's central reader 11 or personal computer 14 via a direct cable connection, a wireless connection such as infra red, radio or other technology, or via manual data input by the user.

There may be situations where unusual activity is recorded by the module 30; this may be because of legitimate or absent-minded reasons or because of an attempt to cheat the system. The module 30 is programmed with some responses in the case of detecting such unusual activity. For example, if the module 30 has not registered any usage for an abnormal period (for example, more than 4 days) then this may be because the user has gone on holiday or away for a short period, the light sensor has been covered, or the module 30 has been removed from the room and not re-attached anywhere else, possibly having been left in a dark cupboard. In this instance, the module 30 may give out an alarm sound at random times to catch the user's attention and remind then to place the module 30 back in a room or uncover the sensor. Alternatively, if the module 30 detects a significant change in 'light left on' behaviour the user may have moved the module to another room without resetting. The next time the module 30 senses activity then a check sequence would be employed to ask the user to explain the unusual activity. Although there is little way to prevent cheating completely this is designed to use the user's conscience against them to prevent misuse of the system.

In the case of low battery power a special warning is shown on the screen 32 and an audible sound emitted from the speakers 35 on a regular basis, this encourages the user to safeguard the data by downloading it to their reader 11 as well as replacing the batteries. Data can be stored on the module 30 without the main battery power for a limited period.

If the user wants to move the module 30 to another room or wants to restart the challenge then the module 30 can be reset using the reset switch 38. Effectively the device would require initialisation again.

Figure 5 shows a shower module 40. This module 40 monitors and records the amount of water used when taking a shower, through measuring the time the shower is switched on for each use. From this the environmental impact, for example the amount of CO₂ produced (through water use and heating) from taking a shower is calculated and recorded. There are two possible embodiments of the shower module 40. In the first embodiment, the module would have two sensors. The first sensor is a simple electrical circuit which can detect when water is present on the sensing surface (which is made up from thin convoluting conductive strips). This is located on the module 40 such that when the module is placed in a suitable location in the shower cubicle that water frequently hits the sensing circuit when the shower is in use.

Occasionally the water from the shower may miss the sensing surface but the software on the module ignores these data errors. Effectively this sensor enables the module 40 to know whether the shower is on or not. It is also important that the device knows if someone is in the shower cubicle or not; this is to prevent error reading from either people stopping the shower to shampoo their hair (or other pause) and also the situation where one person finishes their shower and someone else gets in very quickly after that. Therefore, the module 40 also has a sensor to detect a person near the device (i.e. in the shower cubicle). Such a sensor could be a passive infrared sensor or other sensor which can detect movement within its range. If the sensor provides a signal then the module 40 assumes that the movement is derived from a person in the shower cubicle. In the second embodiment of the module 40 there would also be two sensors; one is the detection device as in the first embodiment that can detect whether a person detect is in the shower or not. The second sensor is a flow measurement device which is placed in the shower head, between the shower head and the inlet tube, in the inlet tube or between the inlet tube and the shower itself. This flow measurement device has an output which varies according to the flow rate of the water. Thus, in this embodiment the amount of water used can also be calculated by the module 40 effectively making it a far more accurate measurement system then the first embodiment.

In addition, a selector switch may be included in either of the two embodiments described above to identify the person who is using the shower at that particular time. Therefore, the module 40 can record not only the total time of shower use for the household but also the times for each individual member of the household.

The module 40 is illustrated in the form of an octopus in Figure 5 but the module 40 could take any shape.

The module 40 is sold in product packaging and comes with full instructions for use and a uniquely coded registration card enabling the user to register their device on a specific internet site accessible on a remote server or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The module 40 has a screen 42 and a pair of input switches 43,47. The module 40 has a water sensor 41 and is largely contained in a shaped plastic casing 46 and has a battery enclosure 44 for storing batteries, which are used as a power supply. There is a speaker 45 on the module 40 and a reset switch 48. In addition, the module 40 includes a PIR sensor 49. After purchase the user initiates the module 40. First the module 40 is turned on by removing a battery isolating strip. The module 40 then requests some data input (the kind of data is required is displayed on the screen 42 and the data entered through input switches 43 and 47). The data inputted is the number of people in household who use the shower, and the type of shower. Also inputted is the date, time and chosen language. The user then has personalisation options such as the ability to name their module 40 or to choose from a range of on-screen characters that appear during the animations and other graphic user interfaces (GUI). The user can then install the module 40 in the shower. The module 40 should be installed where guaranteed contact with water will occur. Ideally this means sticking it to the wall in the shower area (with a sucker pad), preferably at head height of a child. In addition, the module 40 needs to have a clear view of the shower area as it needs to detect the presence of someone in the shower. The final element of initialisation is that the user is prompted by the GUI or an emitted sound to register their device either via the reader 11 or through a personal computer 14 to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. This can be done by a direct cable connection, wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or through a manual user input using the uniquely coded registration card. Once initialised and installed the module 40 enters the monitoring period. This period lasts for a pre-determined time and could be between one to two weeks in duration. The GUI keeps users engaged and interested during this most critical time (new toy initial use). During this period water usage in the shower is monitored and recorded. At the end of the period targets are calculated for the following time periods. The target reduction is predetermined, for example, 40% reduction in environmental impact in 20 weeks. The formulae used to calculate the weekly targets are similar to the illustrative example previously described.

Once the monitoring period is over, then the module 40 starts to monitor water consumption through shower usage every day. The module 40 would typically be in stand-by mode (if the module 40 has not been used for a period of 10 minutes then it enters stand-by mode and nothing is shown on the screen to save power). The water sensor 41 senses when the shower is turned on and the PIR sensor 49 detects when someone gets into the shower. Either water or movement switches the module 40 on, activating the screen 42 where a 'wake up¹ sound or animation sequence, message or other GUI is displayed. A shower is timed from when the water sensor 41 reads 'on' (the water sensor 41 detects water being sprayed onto it from the shower head or from splashes from the person using the shower).

This starts a timer Ts = SHOWER ON (seconds). Ts starts whether or not the person sensor is on (someone may have turned the shower on to warm up the cubicle, but this counts).

The first GUI to appear on screen 42 is the special score screen (described in detail below). This allows the users to see if they are on, above or below the targets set for them. There may be times when, although the shower is on, water misses the sensor 41 and therefore the device thinks the shower is off. Blips such as these of 10 seconds or less should be ignored by the software. In addition, due to a limited view of the person sensor, there may be times when the person is in the shower but does not activate the person sensor 49 (there should be fewer errors than from the water sensor 41). Again, blips such as these of 10 seconds or less should be ignored by the software. Users may also pause the shower for a period of time. For example, they may wet their body, then turn the shower off, then soap, then turn the shower on and rinse. They might do this for soaping, shampooing, conditioning, etc. and this should be encouraged. Once a shower has started, any period over 10 seconds is counted as a pause (such as when the user may have turned off shower to use soap, etc). "Ts" time is then also paused and restarted once an "on" signal is received.

When the water sensor 41 has not detected water for over 10 seconds and the person sensor 49 has not detected a person for over 10 seconds then it is assumed that the shower has stopped. This gets over the problem that when water has not been detected for a long period, for example, 2 minutes, the module 40 does not know if it is a pause or whether one user got out and another user got in. An extra timer is required for both the person and water detecting sensors to time the blips/pauses. Once the shower is assumed stopped then Ts stops. That Ts is then added to Tt = TOTAL

SHOWER TIME (since last reset), 1 is added to Tn = TOTAL NO. OF SHOWERS (since last reset) and using these figures the AVERAGE SHOWER TIME (AST) is adjusted.

A weekly total helps to average out daily inconsistencies, for example, if there are visitors or if the whole family is away. The screen 42 on the device shows various animations, messages or other GUI depending on the data received. For example, it could display a countdown timer which indicates the remaining shower time if the target average shower time is to be reached or be a visual indication of how much water is being used by the shower. It could also display the environmental impact environmental impact of the shower. The environmental impact is calculated form the following equation: Environmental Impact (EI) = D x Em, where:

D = monitored data Em = environmental multiplier

The environmental multiplier accounts for various factors, for example, average shower water temperature, estimated size of shower head (based on the type of shower) etc. In order to keep the module 40 entertaining and interesting, there would also be random special event GUI's shown to keep the user involved in the device. As time elapses there will be visual and audible reminders of either how long the user has left or how long the user has already been in the shower. Once the shower time exceeds the target, the module 40 will start to make visual and audible reminders, indicating that the user is entering a period of negative water use. The monitoring and recording of data continues until the shower is completed. As stated above the shower is registered as completed by the module 40 when the PIR sensor 49 doesn't detect a person in the shower and the water sensor 41 detects that the shower has been off for more than 10 seconds. The module 40 then deactivates the timer and activates the end GUI.

At the end of each shower a score is calculated for that particular shower. A good score is calculated when the shower time is less then the average set, and a bad score is calculated when the shower was longer then the average set. The score is inversely proportional to the environmental impact the shower has made, with a low environmental impact scoring highly but also affected by other penalty or bonus score factors. The score is calculated by the following equation:- S = D x Sm, where: S = score (units); D = monitored data and Sm = score multiplier Details of how the score multiplier is calculated are as described above. This score is stored in the module's memory along with all the measured time data for that particular shower with the time (of day) and date-tagged for future reference. The score is then used to add to the total usage score and a special GUI is shown on the screen 42. This shows the score of the last shower and also compares the total shower time with the target that has been set in the monitoring week. Through animations of characters, messages or other GUIs the achievement of the user can be indicated. Once this special GUI has been shown for 4 minutes the module returns to stand-by mode. This special GUI is shown at the start of each shower (see above), at the end of the shower and when the user selects to view it.

At some pre-determined time period data transfer request GUI is shown on the screen 42 and/or the speaker 45 could make an audible request to have data transferred to the user's central reader 11 or directly into the user's personal computer 14 linked to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The user can then transfer all the recorded water usage data stored on the module 40 to the user's central reader 11 or personal computer 14 via a direct cable connection, a wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or via manual data input by the user. There may be situations where unusual activity is recorded by the device; this may be because of legitimate or absent-minded reasons or because of an attempt to cheat the system. The module 40 is programmed with some responses in the case of detecting such unusual activity. For example, if the device has not registered any usage for an abnormal period (for example, 1 or 2 weeks) then this may be because the user has gone on holiday or removed the module 40. The next time the module 40 senses activity then a check sequence would be employed to ask the user to explain the unusual activity. Although there is little way to prevent cheating completely this is designed to use the user's conscience against them to prevent misuse of the system.

Alternatively there may be shower readings that are impossibly short. The shower module 40 only counts times of over 1 minute and anything less is assumed to constitute a false reading. In the case of low battery power a special warning is shown on the screen 42 and an audible sound is emitted from the speaker 45 on a regular basis; this encourages the user to safeguard the data by downloading it to their reader 11 as well as replacing the batteries. Data can be stored on the module 40 without the main battery power for a limited period.

Figure 6 shows a car journey module 50. The module 50 monitors and records car or other vehicle journey information (the number of journeys, and each of those journey's date, time, distance, length in time, and speed, all of which are correlated to the user's specific type of car or other vehicle). From this the environmental impact, for example the amount of CO₂ produced during that journey, is calculated and recorded.

The module 50 is illustrated in the form of a hedgehog in Figure 6 but the module 50 could take any shape.

There are two different approaches to the type of sensing equipment that can be used. Firstly, the cheap route is to use low cost electronic components (for example, a tilt sensor, an accelerometer, or a piezoelectric sensor) to detect vibrations in the car. The type of vibration can enable the module 50 to understand when people have just got into the vehicle, when the engine is on but the vehicle is not moving, when the vehicle is moving at different speeds and when the engine has been turned off (at the end of the journey). Vibrations sensed by the car will vary depending on tyre pressure, the type of car, the type of road surface, and other factors. Therefore, speed can only be approximated by this type of sensor. However, combined with the on-board clock information the sensed data can be used to estimate journey distance using the equation: distance = speed x time. The alternative and more expensive option is to utilise GPS or other location systems such that more accurate distance and speed data can be gathered about the journey. The module 50 is sold in product packaging and comes with full instructions for use and a uniquely coded registration card enabling the user to register their device on a specific internet site accessible on a remote server or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The module 50 has a screen 51 and a pair of input switches 52,56. The module 50 has a vibration sensor or GPS device 58 and is largely contained in a shaped plastic casing 55 and has a battery enclosure 53 for storing batteries, which are used as a power supply. There is a speaker 54 on the module 50 and a reset switch 57.

After purchase the user initiates the module 50. First the module 50 is turned on by removing a battery isolating strip. The module 50 then requests some data input (the kind of data that is required is displayed on the screen 51 and the data entered through input switches 52 and 56). The data inputted includes the vehicle's fuel type categorised into, but not limited to, petrol, diesel, hybrid, petrol flex fuel (compressed natural gas, liquefied petroleum gas, liquefied natural gas, bio fuels) and electric. The engine size, which can be exact or approximated by being categorised into three size categories: up to 1.4 litres = Small; 1.4 litres to 2.0 litres = Medium; and greater than 2.0 litres = Large, is also inputted. In addition, the gearbox type, which is categorised into manual or automatic, is inputted. Also inputted is the date, time and chosen language. The user then has personalisation options such as the ability to name their module 50 or to choose from a range of onscreen characters that appear during the animations and other graphic user interfaces (GUI). The user can then install the module 50 in the car. The module needs to be kept in the same car during use and not swapped between different cars. The only exception to this is in the case that the initial vehicle being monitored is swapped for a new/different vehicle. In this instance the user can move the module 50 and change the specifications to the new/different vehicle without resetting the whole module 50. The module 50 can be installed anywhere in the car where it can pick up vibrations consistently and most importantly in a place that is clearly visible to the user, for example, on the dashboard (using a sucker pad), clipped to the headrest upright, attached to a window or door (using a sucker pad), clipped to the safety belt anchor, or attached to the child seat. The final element of initialisation is that the user is prompted by the GUI or an emitted sound to register their module 50 either via the reader 11 or through a personal computer 14 to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. This can be done by a direct cable connection, wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or through a manual user input using the uniquely coded registration card.

Once initialised and installed the module 50 enters the monitoring period. This period lasts for a pre-determined time and could be between one to two weeks in duration. During this period the car usage is monitored, recorded and at the end of the period targets are calculated for the following time periods. The target reduction is predetermined, for example, 40% reduction in environmental impact in 20 weeks. The formulae used to calculate the weekly targets are similar to the illustrative examples previously described. Once the monitoring period is over, then the module 50 starts to monitor every day journeys.

The typical actions and activities are shown in the flowchart of Figure 7. The module 50 would typically be in stand-by mode. When someone gets into the car the sensor in the module 50 picks up the associated vibration and activates the screen 51, on which a 'wake up' sound or animation sequence, message or other GUI is displayed. Once that sequence has completed, journey initialisation mode is carried out and the user is asked to enter data about the journey, including the number of people travelling in the car. Once this has been entered, then a timer starts for the journey time (if no data is entered then the module 50 sets a default pre-determined number of people and continues). The first GUI to appear on screen 51 is the special score screen (described in detail below). This allows the users to see if they are on, above or below the targets set for them. As the car moves the module 50 monitors the journey in terms of time, speed and consequently distance travelled. As stated previously there are two methods for sensing the car's motion, either by picking up vibrations of the engine and road and translating these approximately into speeds or by using GPS to provide more exact location, distance and speed information. The vibration sensor can make approximate distance readings using the speed measurement and the time of the journey using the equation Distance = Speed x Time. As the car journey is undertaken the speed and time data (telemetry) is recorded. The screen 51 on the module 50 shows various animations, messages or other GUI dependent on the telemetry data received. For example, during the first 2 miles of the journey a certain animation, message or other GUI is shown and then when 2 miles has been reached the character emits a sound and/or displays an animation, a message or other GUI that indicates the environmental impact of the journey so far. For example, the GUI on-screen character may appear to tap on the screen 51 and show numerically how many grams/kilograms or tonnes of CO₂ have been emitted during the journey so far. The environmental impact is calculated from the following equation:

Environmental Impact (EI) = Distance (D) x Vehicle Specification factor (VS) divided by the number of passengers, where:

Distance (D) is calculated or measured by the device dependent on the sensor (value range 0 - 1,000 miles).

Vehicle Specification factor (VS) - the environmental impact (CO₂ emissions) of a journey is dependent on the size of the engine, its gearbox (manual or automatic) and fuel type. The Vehicle Specification factor (VS) is calculated on a preset table of kilograms of CO₂ emitted per mile or kilometre based on different combinations of engine size, gearbox type and fuel type. This table of data is stored within the module.

Having shown the environmental impact data, the screen 51 returns to animations, messages or other GUI's. These GUI's change according to the journey length but are also randomised and are interrupted when other key milestones are reached, for example: 5 mile distance reached; 10 miles distance reached; 20 miles distance reached; 50 miles distance reached, etc.

At each of these milestones the environmental impact is shown for the journey so far. In order to keep the module 50 entertaining and interesting, there would also be random special event GUI's shown at various points during the journey. The goal would be to keep the user involved in the module 50. Certain noises could also be emitted that alert the user to key points such as the milestones. If the journey is particularly long (over 50 miles) then in order to save power the module 50 shuts the screen 51 down. The sequence of this occurring is that a sleep mode warning is displayed and unless the user presses an input switch 52,56 then the module 50 shuts the screen down. The user can bring the screen 51 back to activation by pressing any button.

The monitoring and recording of telemetry data continues until the journey is completed. The journey is registered as completed by the module 50 when no car motion or vibration is detected.

The module 50 then activates a journey end GUI and the user is asked to confirm whether the journey has been completed or not. If the journey has not been completed (for example, the user has stopped for lunch) then the user can press an input switch 52,56 to pause the module 50 until further car motion is detected. If no input is recorded after 10 minutes then the module 50 assumes that the journey has been completed and the journey timer stopped.

At the end of the journey a score is calculated for that particular journey. The score is inversely proportional to the environmental impact the journey has made, with a low environmental impact scoring highly but also affected by other penalty or bonus score factors. The score is calculated by the following equation:

Score (S) = 2000 - [(D) x (SJ) x (ES) x (PF) x (B)], where:

Distance (D) is calculated or measured by the module 50 dependent on the sensor 58 (value range 0 - 1,000 miles).

Short Journey factor (SJ) - short journeys are often needless and the users could perhaps walk some if not all of them. Therefore, the Short Journey factor penalises the user by reducing the score. The Short Journey factor is calculated on the following basis: less than 1 mileSJ = 50

1 - 5 miles SJ = 25 above 5 miles SJ = 1

Engine Size factor (ES) -the environmental impact (CO₂ emissions) of a journey is dependent in particular on the size of engine so the user's score is multiplied by an engine size factor where the larger the engine the greater the reduction of score. The

Engine Size factor is calculated on the following basis: Small = 1 Medium = 1.5 Large = 2 Passenger Factor (PF) - a car journey is particularly wasteful if it happens with only a few passengers (1 being the worst condition). The Passenger Factor rewards the user for taking more people on a journey. The Passenger Factor is calculated on the following basis:-

1 passenger PF = 1.0 2 passengers PF = 0.9

3 passengers PF = 0.8

4 passengers PF = 0.7

Bonus factor (B) takes into account some additional beneficial or non-beneficial situations, for example: User has not used car for X days/weeks B = 0.7

High speed journey B = 2

This score is stored in the module's memory along with all the telemetry data for that journey time and date-tagged for future reference. The score is then added to the total usage score and a special GUI is shown on the screen. This shows the score of the immediate journey and also compares the total usage with the target that has been set in the monitoring week. Through animations, messages or other GUI the performance of the user can be indicated. Once this special GUI has been shown for 2 minutes the module 50 returns to stand-by mode. This special GUI is shown at the start of each journey (see above), at each milestone, at the end of the journey and when the user selects to view it.

At some pre-determined time period a data transfer request GUI is shown on the screen 51 and/or the speaker 54 could make an audible request to have data transferred to the user's reader 11 or directly into the user's personal computer 14 linked to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The user can then transfer all the recorded car usage data stored on the module 50 to the user's reader 11 or personal computer 14 via a direct cable connection, a wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or via manual data input by the user. There may be situations where unusual activity is recorded by the device; this may be because of legitimate or absent-minded reasons or because of an attempt to cheat the system. The module 50 is programmed with some responses in the case of detecting such unusual activity. For example, if the device has not registered any usage for an abnormal period (for example, 4 weeks) then this may be because the user has gone on holiday, made a conscious effort not to use the car (a very positive action), or removed the module 50 from the car. The next time the module 50 senses activity then a check sequence would be employed to ask the user to explain the unusual activity.

Although there is little way to prevent cheating completely this is designed to use the user's conscience against them to prevent misuse of the system.

Alternatively there may be journey readings that are impossibly short. The module 50 only counts journeys of over 1 minute and anything less is assumed to be a false reading.

In the case of low battery power a special warning is shown on the screen 51 and an audible sound is emitted from the speaker 54 on a regular basis; this encourages the user to safeguard the data by downloading it to their reader 11 as well as replacing the batteries. Data can be stored on the module 50 without the main battery power for a limited period. If the user wants to move the module 50 to another vehicle or wants to restart the challenge then the module 50 can be reset using the reset switch 57. Effectively the module 50 would require initialisation again.

A walking module (not shown) can also be used in the system of Figure 1. The walking module uses a sensor which detects a step of walking or running. This sensor works in the same way as the sensors in pedometers. These usually work by having a tiny spring-set horizontal arm that moves up and down as a person walks and measures the vertical movement of their hips.

Alternatively, other electronic pedometers can detect the impact of the user's foot hitting the ground using a vibration sensor (as described above in relation to the car journey module 50). Essentially the sensor is a motion-sensitive electrical circuit that switches on and off, activating a digital counter. It tends to function best during vigorous walking, when the motion of the hips is more pronounced.

As the device counts the number of steps it can calculate the distance travelled using an on-board processor and simple algorithms. Once initialised the walking module enters into the monitoring period and the user is prompted by the GUI or sound emitted to register their walking module through their reader 11 or personal computer 14 and the specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or specific software download. This can be done by a direct cable connection, wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or through a manual user input. The initial monitoring period lasts for a pre-determined time and could be between 1-2 weeks in duration. During this monitoring period the approximate distance covered on foot is monitored and recorded and the GUI and speakers on the walking module will display encouraging animation and emit sounds to indicate to the user that the module is monitoring. The walking module could also show through the GUI or through sound emitted the distance travelled by foot for specific time periods during this initial and subsequent monitoring periods. For example, a user may be able to compare how much they individually walked in the morning, afternoon and evening or compare distance walked day by day. Users could start to immediately engage with the walking module, as well as compare their individual results with other users. At the end of the initial monitoring period a target is calculated for the following period. The target increase in distance travelled by foot is predetermined, for example, 40% in 20 weeks and the weekly targets are calculated as previously described.

Once the initial monitoring period is over, the walking module starts to monitor distance travelled by foot on an ongoing basis but in set periods matching the length of the initial monitoring period. When stationary, the walking module would typically be in stand-by mode (if the module has not detected walking/running movement for 5 minutes then it enters stand-by mode and nothing is shown on the screen to save power). As stated previously, when the user starts walking the sensor in the walking module picks this up and activates the module and after 15 seconds the GUI displays some encouraging animation for 2 minutes (or until no further movement is sensed) to reward the user and/or the module's speaker emits a variety of noises or a spoken message, for example, "Great, walking is good for you". The walking module continuously calculates and displays a score/distance travelled on foot for the user and the GUI displays this on a special score screen allowing the users to compare their distance walked in the current period with their initial monitoring period, as well as to see if they are on, above or below targets set for them. This screen also shows the score (either in a graphical representation or digitally) to date for this current monitoring period and also compares this with the score possible should they hit their target that has been set relative to the initial monitoring week. This special score screen is shown at all times when the walking module detects walking/running, but can be turned off should the user wish to use other functionality of the walking monitor or return the walking monitor to stand by mode to save power usage. This special score screen can also be viewed should the user select to view it manually and on demand.

The score is inversely proportional to the environmental impact using the principle that walking/running will lower the overall environmental impact of the user. The score is calculated by the following equation:-

Score in points (S) = ((DC/DM)- 1) * 100, where: DM = Distance on foot in monitoring period DC = Distance on foot in current period

The bonus score is a set score that the user is allocated should they hit their target.

Bonus Score = the percentage increase in distance travelled by foot, based on the initial monitoring period, which has been set as the target, for example, should a 20% increase target be achieved this would result in a bonus 20 points scored. This score is stored in the walking module's memory and date-tagged for future reference.

At some pre-determined time period a data transfer request GUI is shown on the screen and/or the speaker could make an audible request to have data transferred to the reader 11 or personal computer 14 and the specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or specific software download. The user can then transfer all the recorded data stored on the walking module to the user's reader 11 or personal computer 14 and the specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or specific software download via either a direct cable connection, wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or through a user manually inputting the data into the personal computer 14.

There may be situations where unusual activity is recorded by the walking monitor; this may be because of legitimate or absent-minded reasons or because of an attempt to cheat the system. The module is programmed with some responses in the case of detecting such unusual activity. For example, if the module has not registered any usage for an abnormal period (for example, more than

1 day) then this may be because the user has gone on holiday or is not carrying the module around with them. In this instance, the module may give out an alarm sound at random times to catch the user's attention and remind then to carry the walking module in future. The next time the module senses activity then a check sequence would be employed to ask the user to explain the unusual activity. Alternatively, the user may continuously shake the walking monitor to try and simulate walking, so as to appear to be walking more. In this instance the walking monitor will be set up to detect a shaking movement and the user will be asked to explain the unusual activity again.

Although there is little way to prevent cheating completely this is designed to use the user's conscience against them to prevent miss-use of the system.

In the case of low battery power a special warning is shown on the screen of the module and an audible sound emitted from the speakers on a regular basis; this encourages the user to safeguard the data by downloading all data to the reader 11 or to their personal computer 14 and the specific internet site accessible on a remote server or specific software download as well as replacing the batteries. Data can be stored on the central reader 11 without the main battery power for a limited period.

If the user wants to give their walking module to someone else or wants to restart the challenge then the module can be reset using the reset switch. Effectively the module would require initialisation again.

The walking module could be incorporated in the reader 11. In this case, the user would also be able to make use of the reader's other functionality that includes, but is not limited to electronic games that the user can play individually on the GUI, a clock and alarm functionality, an electronic calendar and organiser/diary, an MP3 player and radio, send and receive text messaging functionality and a touch screen GUI.

Figure 8 shows a heating module 60. The heating module 60 monitors the operating duration, temperature and daily frequency of use for a single heating appliance. From this the environmental impact, for example the amount of CO₂ produced to power the supply of that heat, is calculated and recorded.

The module 60 is illustrated in the form of a dog in Figure 8 but the module 60 could take any shape.

There are two embodiments of heating module 60. One contains two temperature sensors only (for example, a thermocouple or thermistor or other suitable electronic temperature sensor) and clips onto a radiator or other safe heat source. One of the temperature sensors measures the temperature of the room it is in and the other measures the temperature of the radiator or heat source. This module is intended to monitor whether the heating system is on unnecessarily or set too high (reducing the central heating thermostat in most homes by 1 degree would save on 5% of carbon emissions form the home). The alternative embodiment of the module 60 has three sensors, two of which are temperature sensors and one which is a sensor to detect if there is someone in the room or not. The module 60 is attached as described above and measures room and heating source temperature in the same way. However, using a third sensor (for example, a passive infrared sensor or microphone or other sensor), the device is able to detect whether there is someone in the room or not. Thus it is able to monitor if a room is being heated when there is nobody in it. The reason that both embodiments of heating module 60 require two temperature sensors, one on the heat source and one for the room, is to reduce the potential error on a hot summer's day that the device assumes the heat is provided from a man-made heat source rather than naturally.

The module 60 is sold in product packaging and comes with full instructions for use and a uniquely coded registration card enabling the user to register their module on a specific internet site accessible on a remote server or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The module 60 has a screen 63 and a pair of input switches 62,66. The module 60 has a PIR sensor 61 and two temperature sensors 69a and 69b. It is largely contained in a shaped plastic casing 68 and has a battery enclosure 64 for storing batteries, which are used as a power supply. There is a speaker 65 on the module 60 and a reset switch 67.

After purchase the user initiates the module. First the module 60 is turned on by removing a battery isolating strip. The module 60 then requests some data input (which kind of data is required is displayed on the screen 63). The data inputted is the date, time, chosen language, the room in the house in which the module 60 is to be positioned (this is categorised in the instructions into 4 rooms being living [1], bedroom [2], utility room [3], and miscellaneous e.g. hallway [4]), the type of heater on which the module 60 is to be positioned (this is categorised in the instructions in two categories, i.e. electric convection heater and radiator) and the number of household occupants to provide a guideline for average heating usage.

The user then has personalisation options such as the ability to name their module 60 or to choose from a range of on-screen characters that appear during the animations and other graphic user interfaces (GUI). The user can then install the module 60 on the selected heater (note: the module 60 needs to be used on the heater that corresponds to the previously chosen categories, for example, in the living room 1 on the gas radiator). Should the user wish to move the module 60 to monitor a new heater then the module 60 is to be reset and the initialisation process repeated. The module 60 is installed on the heater by magnetic feet which are attached to the top of the heater. The module 60 can be installed anywhere on the top of the heater where it can monitor the heater temperature consistently and most importantly it should be positioned in a place that is clearly visible to a child user, and not obscured by other household objects.

The final element of initialisation is that the user is prompted by the GUI or sound emitted to register their module 60 through a personal computer 14 and the specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or specific software download. This can be done by a direct cable connection, wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or through a manual user input using the uniquely coded registration card.

Once initialised the module 60 enters into the monitoring period; this is between one to two weeks in duration. During this monitoring period the number of times that a heater is turned on, and for how long it is on for is monitored and recorded and the GUI and speaker 65 will display encouraging animation and sounds to indicate to the user that the module 60 is monitoring. At the end of the initial monitoring period a target is calculated for the following period. The target decrease in heating energy usage is predetermined, for example, 40% in 20 weeks and the weekly targets are calculated as previously described.

Once the initial monitoring period is over the module 60 starts to monitor for subsequent following periods the number of times that a heater is turned on, and for how long the heater is in operation. The module 60 would typically be in stand-by mode (if the module 60 has not been used for a period of 1 minute then it enters stand-by mode and nothing is shown on screen 63 to save power). As stated previously, when the heater is using energy the module is activated and the module 60 and the GUI displays dull and uninteresting 'idling' animation to show the user that the module is activated. For example, the GUI may show animation of hot air rising up the screen 63 or in the first 15 minutes of heater operation, a message or other GUI showing how hot the heater has become and if it needs to be so hot is displayed. On turning off the heater, the GUI would display some animation for a period of time and/or the module's speaker 65 will emit a variety of noises or pre-recorded spoken messages. Once that sequence has completed the module 60 calculates the current score (in points) for the current monitoring period and the GUI displays this on a special score screen which also allows the users to compare their total usage this current monitoring period with their initial monitoring period, as well as to see if they are on, above or below targets set for them. A message or other GUI that indicates the environmental impact of the energy used in heating can also be displayed. For example, the onscreen character may appear to tap on the screen and show numerically how many tonnes of CO₂ have been emitted during an evening's energy use. This screen 63 also shows the possible score the user could get should they hit their target that has been set relative to the initial monitoring week. Once this special score screen has been shown for 30 seconds the module 60 returns to stand-by mode. This special score screen can also be viewed on demand by pushing one of the module's buttons.

The score is inversely proportional to the environmental impact using the principle that the longer a heater is left on (in time) the greater will be the overall environmental impact. The score is calculated by the following equation:

Score in points (S) = (1 - (HOBM)) * 100 where: HM = Heating Power in monitoring period HC = Heating Power in current period The bonus score is a set score that the user is allocated should they hit their target, where:

Bonus Score = the percentage reduction in energy usage, based on the initial monitoring period, which has been set as the target, for example, should a 20% reduction target be achieved this would result in a bonus 20 points scored.

This score is stored in the module's memory and date-tagged for future reference. At some pre-determined time period a data transfer request GUI is shown on the screen 63 and/or the speaker

65 could make an audible request to have data transferred to the user's central reader 11 or directly into the user's personal computer 14 linked to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The user can then transfer all the recorded heater usage data stored on the module 60 to the user's central reader 11 or personal computer 14 via a direct cable connection, a wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology or via manual data input by the user.

There may be situations where unusual activity is recorded by the module 60; this may be because of legitimate or absent-minded reasons or because of an attempt to cheat the system. The module 60 is programmed with some responses in the case of detecting such unusual activity. For example, if the module has not registered any usage for an abnormal period (for example, more than 2 days in winter) then this may be because the user has gone on holiday or away for a short period or removed the module 60 from the heater and not reattached it anywhere else. In this instance, the module 60 may give out an alarm sound at random times to gain the user's attention and remind then to place the module 60 back on a heater. The next time the module 60 senses activity then a check sequence would be employed to ask the user to explain the unusual activity. Although there is little way to prevent cheating completely this is designed to use the user's conscience against them to prevent misuse of the system.

Alternatively, the user's household may have guests staying at the house meaning that more energy will be used through that heater. In this instance, the user can change the number of household occupants on the module 60 and the user's targets will change accordingly based on how much more time the heater will be in use and for how many days in the current monitoring period. Again, after 2-3 days the user will be asked whether those guests are still staying and if not then to change back the settings to the original ones set at initialisation.

In addition, a heater may be left running unintentionally. In this instance should the module 60 measure heating energy for more than 12 hours then an audible alarm will sound to bring this to the user's attention. In the case of low battery power a special warning is shown on the screen 63 and an audible sound emitted from the speaker 65 on a regular basis, this encourages the user to safeguard the data by downloading it to their reader 11 as well as replacing the module's batteries. Data can be stored on the module 60 without the main battery power for a limited period.

If the user wants to move the module 60 to another heater or wants to restart the challenge then the module 60 can be reset using the reset switch 67. Effectively the module would require initialisation again.

Figure 9 shows a cycle module 70. The module 70 monitors the start time, number, length and duration of cycle journeys and hence the amount of CO₂ that can be offset against that which could have been produced if those journeys were made by car. The module 70 is illustrated in the form of a hare in Figure 9 but the module 70 could take any shape.

The cycle module 70 has one sensor, primarily for measuring the distance covered by the bicycle journey. The sensor is constructed from two parts, a magnet which attaches to the spoke of a bicycle wheel and a Reed switch which attaches to the fork of the bicycle. Each time the magnet passes the Reed switch it sends a signal to the module's control processor, which can calculate the distance travelled. As there is an on-board clock on the module 70, a number of other data values can be calculated (for example, current speed, average speed, maximum speed, total distance, the distance since installing the device, trip distance, the distance since pressing the reset button and trip time). As part of the initialisation, the diameter of the bicycle wheel to which the module 70 is attached needs to be measured and entered into the module 70.

The module is sold in product packaging and comes with full instructions for use and a uniquely coded registration card enabling the user to register their cycling module on a specific internet site accessible on a remote server or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The module 70 has a screen 71 and a pair of input switches 72,78. The module 70 has a magnet 74 and a Reed switch 79. The module 70 is largely contained in a shaped plastic casing 76 and has a battery enclosure 73 for storing batteries, which are used as a power supply. There is a speaker 75 on the module 70 and a reset switch 77.

After purchase the user must install the module 70. The module 70 is attached to the handle bar of the bicycle securely by means of an attachment strap. An indicator assembly is attached to the front wheel forks. A wire connector runs between the indicator assembly and the module 70.

First the module 70 is turned on by removing a battery isolating strip. The module 70 then requests some data input (which kind of data is required is displayed on the screen). The data inputted is the date, time and chosen language. The data inputted also includes the wheel rim size for the bicycle (this is categorised in the instructions into Small, Medium and Large) and the type of family car and engine size (A= <1200cc, B = 1200-1800cc and C= >1800cc).

The user then has personalisation options such as the ability to name their module 70 and choose from a range of on-screen characters to appear during the animations and other graphic user interfaces (GUI). In order to monitor correctly the module 70 needs to be kept on one bicycle during use and not swapped between different bicycles. The module 70 should be positioned on the handle bars so that it is clearly visible to the user whilst seated on the bicycle.

The final element of initialisation is that the user is prompted by the GUI or an emitted sound to register their device either via the reader 11 or through a personal computer 14 to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. This can be done by a direct cable connection, wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or through a manual user input using the uniquely coded registration card. Once initialised the module 70 enters into the monitoring period. During this period the amount of time the bicycle is in motion, average speed, start time of each journey, and duration of each journey is recorded and the screen 71 and speaker 75 will display encouraging 'idling' animation and sounds to indicate to the user that the module is monitoring. At the end of the initial monitoring period a target is calculated for the following period. The target increase in bicycle usage is predetermined, for example, 10% in 20 weeks and the weekly targets are calculated similar to how other reduction targets are calculated but in a positive way.

Once the initial monitoring period is over the module 70 starts to monitor for subsequent following periods the number of times the bicycle is in use, and the start time, duration, distance, average speed and total number of journeys. The module 70 would typically be in stand-by mode (if the module 70 has not been used for a period of 1 minute then it enters stand-by mode and nothing is shown on the screen 71 to save power). As stated previously, when a bicycle ride commences, signals from the indicator that the bike is moving triggers a 'wake up' animation sequence. The module 70 is activated and the screen 71 displays very dull and uninteresting animation just to show the user that the module 70 is activated, for example, the GUI may show animation of good weather. On completion of the bike journey, the GUI would display some animation for a period of time and/or the module's speaker 75 would emit a variety of noises or a spoken message. Once that sequence has completed the module 70 calculates the current score (in points) for the current monitoring period and the GUI displays this on a special score screen which also allows the users to compare their total usage this current monitoring period with their initial monitoring period, as well as to see if they are on, above or below targets set for them. This screen also shows the possible score the user could get should they hit their target that has been set relative to the initial monitoring period. Once this special score screen has been shown for 30 seconds the module 70 returns to stand-by mode. This special score screen can also be viewed should the user select to view it manually and on demand.

The indicator assembly provides approximate distance readings. Hence by using the timer, average speed can be calculated using Speed = Distance / Time. As the bicycle journey is undertaken the distance and time data is recorded. The display 71 on the module 70 shows various animations, messages or other GUI dependent on the telemetry data received. These animations can be described as 'idling' animations. It is important during cycling that users are not distracted from keeping their attention on the road. However, when the bicycle is stationary, the display 71 shows a variety of 'reward' animations, for example, a GUI may tap on the screen and show numerically how many tonnes of CO₂ have been collected during the journey so far. The environmental impact is calculated form the following equation:

Environmental saving = distance (km) x CO₂ emissions / kilometre for the family car. This is based on the fact that this journeys made with the bicycle are offset against those that could have been made with a car. Having shown the environmental impact data the screen returns to other animations, messages or other GUI. These GUI's change according to the journey length but can only be viewed when the bicycle is stationary. However, randomised idling behaviours are interrupted when key milestones are reached, such as distance indicators or distance records being broken.

In order to keep the module 70 entertaining and interesting, there would also be random special event sounds shown as various points during the journey. The goal is to keep the user involved in the module 70, without the need to divert attention from the road.

If the bicycle is not in motion for a period of 1 minute the module 70 will enter a sleep mode to conserve battery power. The sequence of this occurring is that a sleep mode warning is displayed and unless the user presses an input switch 72,78 then the module 70 shuts the screen 71 down. The user can bring the screen 71 back to activation by pressing any button.

The module 70 recording of telemetry data continues until the journey is completed. The journey is registered as completed by the module 70 when signalled by the user. The module 70 then activates a journey end GUI. However, if no input is recorded after 5 minutes when the bicycle is stationary, the module 70 assumes that the journey has been completed and the journey timer stopped.

At some pre-determined time period a data transfer request GUI is shown on the module screen 71 and/or the speaker 75 could make an audible request to have data transferred to the users central reader or directly into the users personal computer 14 linked to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The user can then transfer all the recorded bicycle usage data stored on the module 70 to the reader 11 or personal computer 14 via a direct cable connection, a wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology or via manual data input by the user.

There may be situations where unusual activity is recorded by the module 70; this may be because of legitimate or absent-minded reasons or because of an attempt to cheat the system. The module 70 is programmed with some responses in the case of detecting such unusual activity. For example if the module 70 has not registered any usage for an abnormal period (for example, more than 1 week) then this may be because the user has gone on holiday or away for a short period or removed the module 70 from the bicycle and not reattached it anywhere else. In this instance, the module 70 may give out an alarm sound at random times to catch the user's attention and remind then to place the module 70 back on the bicycle. The next time the module 70 senses activity then a check sequence would be employed to ask the user to explain the unusual activity. Although there is little way to prevent cheating completely this is designed to use the user's conscience against them to prevent misuse of the system.

In the case of low battery power a special warning is shown on screen 71 and an audible sound emitted from the speaker 75 on a regular basis; this encourages the user to safeguard the data by downloading it to their reader 11 as well as replacing the batteries. Data can be stored on the module 70 without the main battery power for a limited period.

If the user wants to move the module 70 to another bicycle or wants to restart the challenge then the module 70 can be reset using the reset switch 77. Effectively the module 70 would require initialisation again.

Figure 10 shows a water module 80. The water module 80 monitors and records the amount of time that a tap is on and has water flowing through it.

The module 80 is illustrated in the form of a fish in Figure 10 but the module 80 could take any shape.

The water module 80 has one sensor to detect the flow of water from the tap to which it is attached. The simplest form of the sensor is made of electrical contacts which are either formed into a matrix or that are simply parallel and cross the path of the water flow. When water touches the contacts, being conductive it closes a circuit and the electrical resistance of that circuit changes; thus, water flow can be monitored. In the case of the matrix it is possible to approximate the flow rate of the water depending upon the resistance of the circuit (flow rate would be proportional to resistance). In the case of the parallel contact then the module 80 would either know if the tap is on or off (and would not know or be able to approximate the flow rate). The contacts would be placed such that water drops would not hang between the contacts and provide false readings. It would be possible to use other sensing technologies for this module 80 which would enable flow measurement to be taken, for example, by placing an impeller in series with the flow, such that the impeller has a small magnet attached to one arm and that the passing of the magnet on each revolution of the impeller activates a Hall effect switch. The frequency of the signals from the Hall switch can then be used to calculate the speed of the impeller and hence the flow rate. There are also other types of water flow rate measuring devices that also could be utilised (for example, ultra sonic sensors).

In addition, a selector switch may be included on the module 80 to identify the person who is using the tap at that particular time. Therefore, the module 80 can record not only the total time of tap use for the household but also times for each individual member of the household.

The module 80 is sold in product packaging and comes with full instructions for use and a uniquely coded registration card enabling the user to register their module 80 on a specific internet site accessible on a remote server or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The module 80 has a screen 82 and a pair of input switches 81,85. The module 80 has a sensor 88 and is largely contained in a shaped plastic casing 87. There is a battery enclosure 83 for storing batteries, which are used as a power supply, and a speaker 84. A reset switch 86 is also provided.

After purchase the user initiates the module 80. First the module 80 is turned on by removing a battery isolating strip. The module 80 then requests some data input (the kind of data required is displayed on the screen 82). The data inputted is the date, time, chosen language, the room in the house in which the module is to be positioned (this is categorised in the instructions into 5 rooms being kitchen [1-5], bathroom [1-10], utility room [1-3], garage [1-3], and miscellaneous [1-10]), the type of tap the module is to be positioned on (this is categorised in the instructions in 3 categories being hot tap, cold tap, mixer tap) and the number of household occupants using that tap (for example, if it is an ensuite bathroom maybe only two users use that tap). The user then has personalisation options such as the ability to name their module 80 or to choose from a range of on- screen characters that appear during the animations and other graphic user interfaces (GUI). The user can then install the module 80 on the selected tap (note: the module needs to be used on the tap that corresponds to the previously chosen categories, for example, in Bathroom 1 on the hot tap). Should the user wish to move the module 80 to monitor a new tap then the module 80 is to be reset and the initialisation process repeated. The module 80 can be installed on the tap. The module 80 could be secured to the tap by Velcro® straps or clips and the sensor 88 positioned where the water exits the tap; or the module 80 could be positioned on a flat part of the basin (by means of a sucker pad or stand alone) with a lead running to the sensor 88 positioned where the water exits the tap. The final element of initialisation is that the user is prompted by the GUI or sound emitted to register their module 80 through a personal computer 14 and the specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or specific software download. This can be done by a direct cable connection, wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or through manual user inputting. Once initialised the module 80 enters into the monitoring period which could be between one to two weeks in duration. During this monitoring period: the number of times that a tap is turned on, and for how long it is on is monitored and recorded and the screen 82 and speaker 84 will display encouraging animation and sounds to indicate to the user that the module is monitoring. At the end of the initial monitoring period a target is calculated for the following period. The target decrease in tap usage is predetermined, for example, 40% in 20 weeks and the weekly targets are calculated as previously described.

Once the initial monitoring period is over the module 80 starts to monitor for subsequent following periods the number of times that a tap is turned on, and for how long water is flowing through that tap. The module 80 would typically be in stand-by mode (if the module 80 has not been used for a period of 1 minute then it enters stand-by mode and nothing is shown on the screen 82 to save power). As stated previously, when someone turns on the tap the module 80 is activated and the module 80 and the screen 82 displays very dull and uninteresting animation just to show the user that the module 80 is activated, for example, the screen 82 may show animation of bubbles rising up the screen 82. On turning off the tap, the screen 82 would display some animation for a period of time and/or the module's speaker 84 would emit a variety of noises or a spoken message. Once that sequence has completed the module 80 calculates the current score (in points) for the current monitoring period and the GUI displays this on a special score screen which also allows the users to compare their total usage this current monitoring period with their initial monitoring period, as well as to see if they are on, above or below targets set for them. This screen also shows the possible score the user could get should they hit their target that has been set relative to the initial monitoring week. Once this special score screen has been shown for 30 seconds the module 80 returns to standby mode. This special score screen can also be viewed should the user select to view it manually and on demand.

The score is inversely proportional to the environmental impact using the principle that the longer a tap is left on (in time) the greater will be the overall environmental impact. The score is calculated by the following equation:-

Score in points (S) = (1 - (WC/WM)) * 100, where: WM = Water Flow Time in monitoring period WC = Water Flow Time in current period The bonus score is a set score that the user is allocated should they hit their target.

Bonus Score = the percentage reduction in resource usage, based on the initial monitoring period, which has been set as the target, for example, should a 20% reduction target be achieved this would result in a bonus 20 points scored. This score is stored in the module's memory and date-tagged for future reference.

At some pre-determined time period a data transfer request GUI is shown on the screen 82 and/or the speaker 84 could make an audible request to have data transferred to the users central reader 11 or directly into the users personal computer 14 linked to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The user can then transfer all the recorded tap usage data stored on the module 80 to the user's central reader 11 or personal computer 14 via a direct cable connection, a wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or via manual data input by the user. There may be situations where unusual activity is recorded by the module; this may be because of legitimate or absent-minded reasons or because of an attempt to cheat the system. The module 80 is programmed with some responses in the case of detecting such unusual activity. For example, if the module 80 has not registered any usage for an abnormal period (for example, more than 2 days) then this may be because the user has gone on holiday or away for a short period, or removed the module 80 from the tap and not reattached it anywhere else. In this instance, the module 80 may give out an alarm sound at random times to catch the user's attention and remind then to place the module 80 back on a tap. The next time the module 80 senses activity then a check sequence would be employed to ask the user to explain the unusual activity. Although there is little way to prevent cheating completely this is designed to use the user's conscience against them to prevent misuse of the system.

Alternatively, the user's household may have guests staying at the house meaning that more water will be used through that tap. In this instance, the user can change the number of possible tap users and the user's targets will change accordingly based on how many new users will be using the tap and for how many days in the current monitoring period. Again, after 2-3 days the user will be asked/quizzed on whether those guests are still staying and if not then to change back the settings to the original ones set at initialisation.

In addition, a tap may be left running unintentionally. In this instance should the module 80 measure water flow for more than 5 minutes then an audible alarm will sound to bring this to the user's attention. In the case of low battery power a special warning is shown on screen 82 and an audible sound emitted from the speaker 84 on a regular basis; this encourages the user to safeguard the data by downloading it to their reader 11 as well as replacing the batteries. Data can be stored on the module 80 without the main battery power for a limited period.

If the user wants to move the module 80 to another tap or wants to restart the challenge then the module can be reset using the reset switch 86. Effectively the module would require initialisation again.

Figure 11 shows a fridge module 90. This module 90 monitors the energy wastage of a household refrigerator in situations which correspond to the refrigerator door being left open and/or the refrigerator being set at an unnecessary low temperature. The additional energy that is consumed by the appliance in trying to maintain the internal temperature of the refrigerator corresponds to an increase in electricity use and hence an amount of CO₂ being produced. The module 90 is illustrated in the form of a penguin in Figure 11 but the module 90 could take any shape.

The module 90 contains two sensors. The first is a temperature sensor 95 (for example, a thermocouple or thermistor or other suitable electronic temperature sensor). This detects the temperature inside the fridge, which may vary slightly due to the cooling cycle of the fridge and also particularly due to the door being opened and closed. There is no need for the fridge to be set cooler than 3.5 degrees Celsius. The second sensor in the module 90 is a light sensor 91 (for example, a photovoltaic sensor). When the door of the fridge opens usually a light comes on and the module 90 senses this light being on and therefore assumes the door of the fridge is open. With the combination of these two sensors the module 90 can measure the temperature inside the fridge and encourage the user not to set it too low (unnecessary waste of energy) and also it can monitor how long the door is left open for (which lets out the cooled air again a waste of energy).

The module 90 is sold in product packaging and conies with full instructions for use and a uniquely coded registration card enabling the user to register their module on a specific internet site accessible on a remote server or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The module 90 has a screen 93 and a pair of input switches 94,99. The module 90 is largely contained in a shaped plastic casing 97 and has a battery enclosure 92 for storing batteries, which are used as a power supply. A speaker 96 and a reset switch 98 are also provided.

After purchase the user initiates the module 90. First the module 90 is turned on by removing a battery isolating strip. The module 90 then requests some data input (the kind of data required is displayed on the screen 93). The data inputted is the date, time, chosen language, the efficiency of refrigerator (energy rating A,B_>C,D,E) and the number of household occupants to provide a guideline for average refrigerator usage.

The user then has personalisation options such as the ability to name their module 90 or to choose from a range of on-screen characters that appear during the animations and other graphic user interfaces (GUI). The user can then install the module 90 in the selected refrigerator. Should the user wish to move the character to monitor a new refrigerator then the character is to be reset and the initialisation process repeated. The module 90 can be installed in two ways: firstly, the complete module 90 along with sensing unit may be attached via a suction pad to one of the inner walls of the refrigerator. In this case care must be taken to ensure the screen 93 of the module 90 is not obscured by other objects such as food packaging. Secondly, the module 90 can be installed on the refrigerator door by a magnet/suction pad. In both cases a sensing unit which measures the internal temperature of the refrigerator must be placed anywhere on the top food shelf of the refrigerator where it can monitor the internal temperature consistently. The sensing unit is attached to the module by means of a wire connector or utilises wireless technology.

The final element of initialisation is that the user is prompted by the GUI or an emitted sound to register their device either via the reader 11 or through a personal computer 14 to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. This can be done by a direct cable connection, wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or through a manual user input using the uniquely coded registration card.

Once initialised the module 90 enters into the monitoring period. The initial monitoring period is between 1-2 weeks in duration. During this monitoring period average temperature, the number of times the internal temperature rises and a register of above-average temperatures is recorded and the GUI and speaker 96 will display encouraging animation and sounds to indicate to the user that the module 90 is monitoring. At the end of the initial monitoring period a target is calculated for the following period. The target decrease in excess refrigerator energy usage is predetermined, for example, 40% decrease in excess energy in 20 weeks and the weekly targets are calculated as previously described.

Once the initial monitoring period is over the module 90 starts to monitor for subsequent following periods, the number of times the door is opened and for how long, as this corresponds to a change and return to the normal internal temperature of the refrigerator. The module 90 would typically be in stand-by mode (if the module 90 has not been used for a period of 1 minute then it enters stand-by mode and nothing is shown on screen to save power). During normal operation of the refrigerator, for long periods when the door remains closed, the screen 93 displays dull and uninteresting 'idling' animation to show the user that the character is still activated, for example, the screen 93 may show an animation of icicles being formed on the screen 93 or a message, or another animation showing how cool the refrigerator is and whether the temperature can be turned up.

However, when the refrigerator door is open and its internal temperature is rising, the module 90 is activated and the GUI displays an animation to show this. For example, the GUI may show alert animations of ice caps melting as the refrigerators internal temperature rises or a message or other animation that shows how much warmer the refrigerator has become and indicates that the refrigerator door needs to be closed.

At predetermined intervals, the screen 93 would display some animation for a period of time and/or the module's speaker 96 will emit a variety of noises or pre-recorded spoken messages. Once '' that sequence has completed, the module 90 calculates the current score (in points) and the screen 93 displays this on a special score screen which also allows the user to compare their total current usage with their initial monitoring period, as well as to see if they are on, above or below the targets set for them. A message or other GUI that indicates the environmental impact of the excess energy used in refrigerator can also be displayed. For example, the on-screen character may tap on the screen and show numerically how many tonnes of CO₂ have been emitted as a result the last record of failure to close the fridge door.

This screen also shows the possible score the user could get should they hit their target that has been set relative to the initial monitoring week. Once this special score screen has been shown for 30 seconds the module returns to stand-by mode. This special score screen can also be viewed on demand by pushing one of the module buttons.

The score is inversely proportional to the environmental impact using the principle that the longer a refrigerator door is left open (in time) the greater the overall environmental impact. The score is calculated by the following equation:-

Score in points (S) = (1 - (RC/RM)) * 100, where:- RM = Excess Refrigerator Power used in monitoring period RC = Excess Refrigerator Power used in current period

The bonus score is a set score that the user is allocated should they hit their target. Bonus Score = the percentage reduction in energy usage, based on the initial monitoring period, which has been set as the target, for example, should a 20% reduction target be achieved this would result in a bonus 20 points scored. This score is stored in the module's memory and date tagged for future reference.

At some pre-determined time period a data transfer request GUI is shown on the screen 93 and/or the speaker 96 could make an audible request to have data transferred to the reader 11 or directly into the user's personal computer 14 linked to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download.

The user can then transfer all the recorded refrigerator usage data stored on the module 90 to the reader 11 or personal computer 14 via a direct cable connection, a wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology or via manual data input by the user.

There may be situations where unusual activity is recorded by the module 90; this may be because of legitimate or absent-minded reasons or because of an attempt to cheat the system. The module 90 is programmed with some responses in the case of detecting such unusual activity. For example, if the module 90 has not registered any usage for a abnormal period (for example, more than 2 days) then this may be because the user has gone on holiday or away for a short period or removed the module 90 from the refrigerator. In this instance, the module 90 may give out an alarm sound at random times to gain the user's attention and remind then to place the module 90 back on a refrigerator. The next time the module 90 senses activity then a check sequence would be employed to ask the user to explain the unusual activity. Although there is little way to prevent cheating completely this is designed to use the user's conscience against them to prevent misuse of the system.

Alternatively, the user's household may have guests staying at the house meaning that there is potential to waste more energy through misuse of the refrigerator. In this instance, the user can change the number of household occupants on the module and the user's targets will change accordingly based on how much more time the refrigerator will be in use and for how many days in the current monitoring period. Again, after 2-3 days the user will be asked on whether those guests are still staying and if not then to change back the settings to the original ones set at initialisation.

In addition, a refrigerator may be switched off unintentionally. In this instance should the character measure an increase in temperature for more than 1 hour then an audible alarm will sound to bring this to the user's attention.

In the case of low battery power a special warning is shown on the screen 93 and an audible sound emitted from the speaker 96 on a regular basis; this encourages the user to safeguard the data by downloading it to their reader 11 as well as replacing the modules batteries. Data can be stored on the module 90 without the main battery power for a limited period.

If the user wants to move the module 90 to another refrigerator or wants to restart the challenge then the module 90 can be reset using the reset switch 98. Effectively the module would require initialisation again.

Figure 12 shows a toilet flush monitor 100. This module 100 monitors and records the number of toilet flushes.

The module 100 is illustrated in the form of a house fly in Figure 12 but the module 100 could take any shape. The module 100 has one sensor 108, which detects water flow over the sensing surface and works electrically in the same manner as the shower module's water sensor. In the case of the toilet module 100, the sensor 108 is clipped over the rim of the toilet bowl or cistern in a similar manner to a toilet cleaning capsule. Thus, when the toilet is flushed then water flows over the sensing circuit in the case of bowl installation or the water level drops away from the sensor in the case of the cistern installation in either case a signal is generated by the sensor which is registered by the device which therefore knows that the toilet has been flushed (note: software on the device would enable it to differentiate between a true flush and intermittent signals from cleaning or the user urinating on the sensing surface).

The module 100 is sold in product packaging and comes with full instructions for use and a uniquely coded registration card enabling the user to register their module on a specific internet site accessible on a remote server or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The module 100 has a screen 101 and a pair of input switches 102,106. The module 100 is largely contained in a shaped plastic casing 105 and has a battery enclosure 103 for storing batteries, which are used as a power supply. A speaker 104 and a reset switch 107 are also provided.

After purchase the user initiates the module 100. First the module 100 is turned on by removing a battery isolating strip. The module 100 then requests some data input (the kind of data required is displayed on the screen 101). The data inputted is date, time, chosen language, the bathroom/toilet in the house in which the module 100 is to be positioned (this is categorised in the following: bathroom [1-10]); toilet [1-10]) and the number of household occupants using that bathroom/toilet (for example, if it is an ensuite bathroom limited numbers will use that toilet). The user then has personalisation options such as the ability to name their module 100 or to choose from a range of on-screen characters that appear during the animations and other graphic user interfaces (GUI). The user can then install the module 100 on the selected toilet (note: the module 100 needs to be on the toilet that corresponds to the previously chosen categories, for example, in Bathroom 1). Should the user wish to move the module 100 to monitor a new toilet then the module 100 is to be reset and the initialisation process repeated. The module 100 can be installed near the toilet with the sensor in the toilet bowl or the cistern using different methods dependent on which sensing system is utilised. For example, the module 100 could be secured to the top or front of the cistern (by suction pad, removable adhesive pads, or clipped on). Alternatively, the module 100 can be clipped over the rim of the toilet in a similar manner to a toilet cleaner capsule. The final element of initialisation is that the user is prompted by the GUI or an emitted sound to register their device either via the reader 11 or through a personal computer 14 to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. This can be done by a direct cable connection, wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or through a manual user input using the uniquely coded registration card.

Once initialised the module 100 enters into the initial monitoring. The initial monitoring period could be between 1-2 weeks in duration. During this monitoring period the number of times a toilet is flushed and the length of each flush is monitored and recorded and the screen 101 and speaker 104 will display encouraging animation and sounds to indicate to the user that the module 100 is monitoring. At the end of the initial monitoring period a target is calculated for the following periods. The target decrease in toilet flushing is predetermined, for example, 40% in 20 weeks and the weekly targets are calculated as previously described.

Once the initial monitoring period is over the module 100 starts to monitor for subsequent following periods the number of times that a toilet is flushed and the length of each flush. The module 100 would typically be in stand-by mode (if the module 100 has not been used for a period of 3 minutes then it enters stand-by mode and nothing is shown on screen 101 to save power). When the module 100 detects water movement on its sensing area then the module 100 is activated and the screen 101 displays some animation for a period of time and/or the module's speaker 104 would emit a variety of noises or a spoken message. Once that sequence has completed the module 100 calculates the current score (in points) for the current monitoring period and the GUI displays this on a special score screen which also allows the users to compare their total usage this current monitoring period with their initial monitoring period, as well as to see if they are on, above or below targets set for them. This screen also shows the possible score the user could get should they hit their target that has been set relative to the initial monitoring week. Once this special score screen has been shown for 2 minutes the module 100 returns to stand-by mode. GUI animation and this special score screen can also be viewed should the user select to view it manually and on demand. The score is inversely proportional to the environmental impact using the principle that the more a toilet is flushed the more water and energy is consumed resulting in a greater overall environmental impact. The score is calculated by the following equation: Score in points (S) = (1 - (BC/BM)) * 100 BM = Cumulative length of flushes in monitoring period BC = Cumulative length of flushes in current period

At some pre-determined time period a data transfer request GUI is shown on the screen 101 and/or the speaker 104 could make an audible request to have data transferred to the reader 11 or directly into the user's personal computer 14 linked to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The user can then transfer all the recorded toilet flush usage data stored on the module 100 to the reader 11 or personal computer 14 via a direct cable connection, a wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology or via manual data input by the user.

There may be situations where unusual activity is recorded by the module 100; this may be because of legitimate or absent-minded reasons or because of an attempt to cheat the system. The module 100 is programmed with some responses in the case of detecting such unusual activity. For example, if the module 100 has not registered any usage for an abnormal period (for example, more than 1 week) then this may be because the user has gone on holiday or is away for a short period or that the module 100 has been removed from the toilet and not repositioned somewhere else. In this instance, the module 100 may give out an alarm sound at random times to catch the user's attention and remind them to place the module 100 back in the appropriate toilet. The next time the module 100 senses activity then a check sequence would be employed to ask the user to explain the unusual activity. Although there is little way to prevent cheating completely this is designed to use the user's conscience against them to prevent misuse of the system.

Alternatively, the user's household may have guests or someone that normally uses the toilet may be away and so the toilet would be used more or less, respectively. In this instance, the user can change the number of possible toilet users and the user's targets will change accordingly based on how many new users will be using the toilet and for how many days in the current monitoring period. Again, after 2-3 days the user will be asked on whether those guests are still staying and if not then to change back the settings to the original ones set at initialisation.

In the case of low battery power a special warning is shown on the screen 101 and an audible sound emitted from the speaker 104 on a regular basis; this encourages the user to safeguard the data by downloading it to their reader 11 as well as replacing the batteries. Data can be stored on the module 100 without the main battery power for a limited period.

If the user wants to move the module 100 to another toilet or wants to restart the challenge then the module 100 can be reset using the reset switch. Effectively the module 100 would require initialisation again. Figure 13 shows a bath module 110. The bath module 110 monitors and records the number of baths taken and the approximate depth of the bath water.

The module 110 is illustrated in the form of a frog in Figure 13 but the module 110 could take any shape.

The bath module 110 has one sensor which measures depth of water. There are a number of ways of achieving this. In one instance the module 110 could be attached to the bottom of the bath

(using suckers or another reliable attachment system). In the base of the module 110 would be a small pressure sensor that would be capable of measuring the depth of the water in the bath via the pressure of that water (since water pressure is directly proportional to depth). In another instance the module 110 could be attached to the bottom of the bath (as above) or attached elsewhere on the bath with a sensing surface which extends to the bottom of the bath. In either case the sensing circuit is made up of discrete sensing areas each of which is capable of detecting water. Thus as the bath fills up each one of there sensing areas detects the rising water level and provided the module 110 is correctly set up the height of the bath water used is known. During initialisation the depth of water compared to the volume of water can be calibrated. Thus once the device knows the water level then the volume of water will be known.

The module is sold in product packaging and comes with full instructions for use and a uniquely coded registration card enabling the user to register their bath monitor on a specific internet site accessible on a remote server or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The module 110 has a screen 113 and a pair of input switches 111,116. The module 110 is largely contained in a shaped plastic casing 118 and has a battery enclosure 114 for storing batteries, which are used as a power supply. There is a water pressure sensor 115 and a water level sensor 119. A speaker 117 and a reset switch 112 are also provided.

After purchase the user initiates the module 110. First the module 110 is turned on by removing a battery isolating strip. The module 110 then requests some data input (the kind of data required is displayed on the screen 113). The data inputted is date, time, chosen language, the room in the house in which the module is to be positioned (this is categorised in the following: bathroom

[1-10]); and the number of household occupants using that bath (for example, if it is an ensuite bathroom maybe only users use that bath). The user then has personalisation options such as the ability to name their module 110 or to choose from a range of on-screen characters that appear during the animations and other graphic user interfaces (GUI). The user can then install the module 110 on the selected bath (note: the module needs to be used in the room that corresponds to the previously chosen categories, for example, in Bathroom 1). Should the user wish to move the module 110 to monitor a new bath then the module 110 is to be reset and the initialisation process repeated. The module 110 can be installed on or in the bath using different methods dependent on which sensing system is utilised. For example, the module 110 could be secured to the side of bath (by a sucker pad or Velcro® pads) and have the sensing surface extending to the bottom of the bath or the module 110 could be secured to or just sit at the bottom of the bath (by sucker pad or dead weight) where the module could measure the depth of the bath water with the sensor 115 that measures the pressure of that water.

In addition a selector switch may be included on the monitor 110 to identify the person who is using the bath at that particular time. Therefore, the monitor 110 can record not only total bath use for the household but also for each individual member of the household.

The final element of initialisation is that the user is prompted by the GUI or sound emitted to register their module 110 through a personal computer 14 and the specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or specific software download. This can be done by a direct cable connection, wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or through a manual user input using the uniquely coded registration card.

Once initialised the module 110 enters into the monitoring period which could be between one to two weeks in duration. During this monitoring period the number of times the module's sensing surface detects water and the level of that water, or detects water pressure and approximates the bath water's depth, is monitored and recorded and the GUI and speaker 117 (the speaker 117 is not relevant when water pressure sensing technology is being used) will display encouraging animation and sounds to indicate to the user that the module 110 is monitoring. At the end of the initial monitoring period a target is calculated for the following period. The target decrease in water usage in the bath is predetermined, for example, 40% in 20 weeks and the weekly targets are calculated as previously described. Once the initial monitoring period is over the module 110 starts to monitor for subsequent following periods the number of times that a bath is taken and approximately how deep that bath is. The module 110 would typically be in stand-by mode (if the module 110 has not been used for a period of 1 minute then it enters stand-by mode and nothing is shown on the screen 113 to save power). As stated previously, when the module 110 detects water pressure or water on its sensing area then the module 110 is activated and the module 110 and the screen 113 displays very dull and uninteresting animation just to show the user that the module is activated, for example, the screen 113 may show animation of bubbles rising up the screen 113 or an image of a tap flowing and a bath filling up. The user would take their bath and on removing the plug the water will drain away. Once the module 110 detects no water pressure or senses no water on its sensing areas for more than 2 minutes the GUI would display some animation for a period of time and/or the module's speaker 117 would emit a variety of noises or a spoken message. Once that sequence has completed the module 110 calculates the current score (in points) for the current monitoring period and the GUI displays this on a special score screen which also allows the users to compare their total usage this current monitoring period with their initial monitoring period, as well as to see if they are on, above or below targets set for them. This screen also shows the possible score the user could get should they hit their target that has been set relative to the initial monitoring week. Once this special score screen has been shown for 5 minutes the module 110 returns to stand by mode. This special score screen can also be viewed should the user select to view it manually and on demand.

The score is inversely proportional to the environmental impact using the principle that the deeper the bath (measured by the water sensing areas of the module or through water pressure), the more water and energy is consumed resulting in a greater overall environmental impact. The score is calculated by the following equation:-

Score in points (S) = (1 - (BC/BM)) * 100, where: BM = Cumulative depth of all baths in monitoring period BC = Cumulative depth of all baths in current period

The bonus score is a set score that the user is allocated should they hit their target. Bonus Score = the percentage reduction in resource usage, based on the initial monitoring period, which has been set as the target, for example, should a 20% reduction target be achieved this would result in a bonus 20 points scored. This score is stored in the module's memory and date-tagged for future reference. At some pre-determined time period a data transfer request GUI is shown on the screen 113 and/or the speaker 117 could make an audible request to have data transferred to the reader 11 or directly into the user's personal computer 14 linked to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The user can then transfer all the recorded bath usage data stored on the module to the reader 11 or personal computer 14 via a direct cable connection, a wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or via manual data input by the user.

There may be situations where unusual activity is recorded by the module; this may be because of legitimate or absent-minded reasons or because of an attempt to cheat the system. The module 110 is programmed with some responses in the case of detecting such unusual activity. For example, if the module 110 has not registered any usage for an abnormal period (e.g. more than 1 week) then this may be because the user has gone on holiday or is away for a short period or that the module 110 has been removed from the bath and not repositioned somewhere else. In this instance, the module 110 may give out an alarm sound at random times to catch the user's attention and remind then to place the module 110 back in the appropriate bath. The next time the module 110 senses activity then a check sequence would be employed to ask the user to explain the unusual activity. Although there is little way to prevent cheating completely this is designed to use the user's conscience against them to prevent misuse of the system. In addition, the module 110 will be programmed to only activate and start recording water bath depth should a certain water pressure or water level be reached so as to avoid the module 110 taking measurements when the user may only be taking a shower with some water accumulating at the bottom of the bath.

Alternatively, the user's household may have guests staying at the house meaning that more baths may be taken. In this instance, the user can change the number of possible bath users and the users targets will change accordingly based on how many new users will be using the bath and for how many days in the current monitoring period. Again, after 2-3 days the user will be asked/quizzed on whether those guests are still staying and if not then to change back the settings to the original ones set at initialisation. In addition, a bath tap may be left running unintentionally. In this instance should the module measure water above a certain pressure or above a certain level on the sensing area then an audible alarm will sound to bring this to the user's attention.

In the case of low battery power a special warning is shown on screen 113 and an audible sound emitted from the speaker 117 on a regular basis; this encourages the user to safeguard the data by downloading it to their reader 11 as well as replacing the batteries. Data can be stored on the module 110 without the main battery power for a limited period.

If the user wants to move the module to another tap or wants to restart the challenge then the module 110 can be reset using the reset switch 112. Effectively the module 110 would require initialisation again. Figure 14 shows a food miles module 120. This portable module 120 monitors and records the number of food miles for goods used for specific items, meals and/or bought on specific shopping trips.

The module 120 is illustrated in the form of a pig in Figure 14 but the module 120 could take any shape. The user of the food miles module 120 enters data from food packs and as such, the module

120 does not have a sensor component but rather an input system. Every food pack has information on it with regard to the country of origin. The user can enter the country of origin data and the type of food class (e.g. vegetables, fruit, meat, etc.) each time they have completed a shopping trip. The number of food miles (approximately) is calculated by the module 120 using sorted geographical data and the module's on-board processor.

The module is sold in product packaging and comes with full instructions for use and a uniquely coded registration card enabling the user to register their food miles monitor on a specific internet site accessible on a remote server or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The module 120 has a screen 121 and a pair of input switches 122,126. The module 120 is largely contained in a shaped plastic casing 125 and has a battery enclosure 123 for storing batteries, which are used as a power supply. A speaker 124 and a reset switch 127 are also provided.

After purchase the user initiates the module 120. First the module 120 is turned on by removing a battery isolating strip. The module 120 then requests some data input (the kind of data required is displayed on the screen 121). The data inputted is the date, time, country of use and chosen language. The user then has personalisation options such as the ability to name their module 120 or to choose from a range of on-screen characters that appear during the animations and other graphic user interfaces (GUI). The food miles module 120 is a portable module that the user can carry around with them and interact with from any location. Examples of where the module 120 can be kept are, but not limited to within the user's pocket, clipped to the user's clothing or bag, clipped onto a key ring or worn around the user's neck on a lanyard. Alternatively, the food miles module 120 could be stored in a fixed wall bracket in a position of convenience, for example, in the kitchen.

The final element of initialisation is that the user is prompted by the GUI or sound emitted to register their module 120 through a personal computer 14 and the specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or specific software download. This can be done by a direct cable connection, wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or through a manual user input using the uniquely coded registration card.

Once initialised the module 120 enters into the monitoring period which lasts for a predetermined period and could be between one to two weeks in duration. During this monitoring period the total number of food miles as well as the food miles of each item inputted by the user is monitored and recorded and the screen 121 and speaker 124 will display encouraging animation and sounds to indicate to the user that the module 120 is monitoring. At the end of the initial monitoring period a target is calculated for the following period. The target decrease is predetermined, for example, 40% improvement in 20 weeks and the weekly targets are calculated using a standard formula.

Once the initial monitoring period is over the module 120 starts to monitor for subsequent following periods the number of food miles per item, specific meal and/or per specific shopping trip. The module 120 would typically be in stand-by mode (if the module 120 has not been used for a period of 5 minutes then it enters stand-by mode and nothing is shown on screen 121 to save power). As stated previously, the food miles module 120 is activated through the module 120 being picked up, having a button pressed, through the touch screen or through audible means. The user then gets an option on the screen 121 to choose what they are about to monitor (this would be categorised into 9 categories such as, but not limited to an individual item, a morning snack, an afternoon snack, an evening snack, a night time snack, breakfast, lunch, drinks and dinner). After selecting what is to be monitored, the screen 121 on the module 120 would display interesting animation and the module 120 emits sounds to show the user that the module is activated and waiting for information to be input. The user can then input the country of origin, or barcode should this include country of origin, for either an individual item (for example, a bar of chocolate as a snack) or a series of items (for example, ingredients making up a lunch). Through the screen 121 the user can also allocate the food miles relevant to these items into a number of categories such as, but not limited to fresh food, bakery items, food cupboard, frozen, drinks, off licence, house and pet, dairy, meats, vegetables, herbs and salads, ready meals and baby. As every item's country of origin is input into the module 120 the screen 121 would display interesting animation and the module 120 emits sounds to demonstrate to the user the food miles calculated and whether items had high or low food miles. Once all items to be monitored have been input the user confirms completion through the module 120 by having a button pressed, through the touch screen or through audible means. Once that sequence has completed the module 120 calculates the current score (in points) for the current monitoring period and the screen 121 displays this on a special score screen which also allows the users to compare their total usage this current monitoring period with their initial monitoring period, as well as to see if they are on, above or below targets set for them (the special score and targets can also be calculated for individual categories stated above, i.e. meal type or grocery type or a combination of these). This screen also shows the possible score the user could get should they hit their target that has been set relative to the initial monitoring week. The module 120 can then be returned to its normal pre-use position as discussed above. Once this special score screen has been shown for 2 minutes the module 120 returns to stand-by mode. This special score screen can also be viewed should the user select to view it manually and on demand.

The score is inversely proportional to the environmental impact using the principle that the more food miles accumulated the greater will be the overall environmental impact. The score is calculated by the following equation:

Score in points (S) = (1 - (FCTFM)) * 100, where: FM = Food miles in monitoring period FC = Food miles in current period

The bonus score is a set score that the user is allocated should they hit their target. Bonus Score = the percentage reduction in resource usage, based on the initial monitoring period, which has been set as the target, for example, should a 20% reduction target be achieved this would result in a bonus 20 points scored. This score is stored in the module's memory and date-tagged for future reference.

At some pre-determined time period a data transfer request GUI is shown on the screen 121 and/or the speaker 124 could make an audible request to have data transferred to the reader 11 or directly into the user's personal computer 14 linked to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The user can then transfer all the recorded food miles usage data stored on the module 120 to the user's central reader 11 or personal computer 14 via a direct cable connection, a wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology or via manual data input by the user.

There may be situations where unusual activity is recorded by the module 120; this may be because of legitimate or absent-minded reasons or because of an attempt to cheat the system. The module 120 is programmed with some responses in the case of detecting such unusual activity. For example, if the module 120 has not registered any usage for an abnormal period (for example, more than 1 day) then this may be because the user has gone on holiday or away for a short period, forgotten to use the module 120, or removed the module 120 and left it elsewhere. In this instance, the module 120 may give out an alarm sound at random times to catch the user's attention and remind them that the module 120 is being left redundant and needs to be used. The next time the module 120 senses activity then a check sequence would be employed to ask the user to explain the unusual activity. Although there is little way to prevent cheating completely this is designed to use the user's conscience against them to prevent misuse of the system. Alternatively, should the module 120 be recording significantly lower food miles either cumulatively or by category, for example, breakfast food miles have dropped from 1000 miles to 100 miles per meal, then on activation and selection of the breakfast category a check sequence would be employed to ask the user to explain the unusual activity.

In addition, should the module 120 have records for a certain meal of the day that has in the past been input at a certain time, for example, breakfast is normally input at 7.45am, then should no data have been input by this time on a certain day then the module 120 can emit a sound to remind the user that they may wish to input some food miles data. This is to remind users who may have forgotten to input their food miles data for a specific meal.

In the case of low battery power a special warning is shown on the screen 121 and an audible sound emitted from the speaker 124 on a regular basis; this encourages the user to safeguard the data by downloading it to their reader 11 as well as replacing the batteries. Data can be stored on the module 120 without the main battery power for a limited period.

If the user wants to restart the challenge then the module 120 can be reset using the reset switch. Effectively the module 120 would require initialisation again. Figure 15 shows a recycling module 130. This module 130 monitors and records the number of times an item of recycling (paper, glass, plastics, cans, tins etc) is thrown into a recycling box or container for items to be recycled.

The module 130 is illustrated in the form of an ant in Figure 15 but the module 130 could take any shape. The recycling module 130 is similar to the food miles module 120 in that it does not have a sensor but rather an input system. Each one of the modules 130 is typically attached to a recycling collection bin in the user's home. Then each time the user places a recycled item in that bin (e.g. a can, a piece of plastic packaging or other) then they simply push a switch to register that they have recycled an item. The module 130 stores the total score.

The module 130 is sold in product packaging and comes with full instructions for use and a uniquely coded registration card enabling the user to register their recycling monitor on a specific internet site accessible on a remote server or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The module 130 has a screen 132 and a pair of input switches 131,137. The module 130 is largely contained in a shaped plastic casing 136 and has a battery enclosure 133 for storing batteries, which are used as a power supply. A speaker 134 and a reset switch 135 are also provided. After purchase the user initiates the module 130. First the module 130 is turned on by removing a battery isolating strip. The module 130 then requests some data input (the kind of data is required is displayed on the screen 132). The data inputted is the date, time, chosen language and the user chooses from a given list on the GUI of which type of recycling the module 130 is going to be monitoring and recording (this is categorised in the instructions into 7 categories including, but not limited to glass, mixed cans and tins, paper, plastic, textiles, composting, miscellaneous). The user can select multiple categories should the recycling box be for more than one category. The user then has personalisation options such as the ability to name their module 130 or to choose from a range of on-screen characters that appear during the animations and other graphic user interfaces (GUI). The user can then install the module 130 on the recycling box (note: the module needs to be used on the box where the recycling of the previously chosen category is to occur for example, the paper recycling box, the plastic bottles box, the plastic bottles, mixed cans and tins box). Should the user wish to move the module 130 to monitor a new set of recycling categories then the module 130 is to be reset and the initialisation process repeated. The module 130 can be installed on the rim of a recycling box and/or container for items to be recycled in, for example, on the side of a plastic recycling container (by means of a sucker pad) or clipped to the rim of the recycling container.

The final element of initialisation is that the user is prompted by the GUI or sound emitted to register their module 130 through a personal computer 14 and the specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or specific software download. This can be done by a direct cable connection, wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or through a manual user input using the uniquely coded registration card.

Once initialised the module 130 enters into the monitoring period which lasts for a predetermined period and could be between one to two weeks in duration. During this monitoring period the number of times items are recycled is monitored and recorded and the screen 132 and speaker 134 will display encouraging animation and sounds to indicate to the user that the module 130 is alive and monitoring. At the end of the initial monitoring period a target is calculated for the following period. The target increase is predetermined, for example, 40% improvement in 20 weeks and the weekly targets are calculated using a standard formula. Once the initial monitoring period is over, then the module 130 starts to monitor items placed into the recycling box every day. The module 130 would typically be in stand-by mode (if the module 130 has not been used for a period of 1 minute then it enters stand-by mode and nothing is shown on the screen 132 to save power). As stated previously, when someone places an item of recycling into the recycling box, the user inputs the number of items recycled. This can be done by tapping the module 130 on the head for the number of items recycled, which activates the module 130 and the screen 132 displays some animation for 30 seconds to reward the user and/or the module's speaker 134 emits a variety of noises or a spoken message, for example, "Thanks, that was delicious". Alternatively, the module 130 may automatically sense when an item has been recycled. Once that sequence has completed the module 130 calculates a score and the screen 132 displays this on a special score screen allowing the users to compare their current recycling figures with their initial monitoring period, as well as to see if they are on, above or below targets set for them.

This screen also shows the score to date for this current monitoring period and also compares this with the score possible should they hit their target that has been set relative to the initial monitoring week. Once this special score screen has been shown for 30 seconds the module 130 returns to stand-by mode. This special score screen can also be viewed should the user select to view it manually and on demand.

The score is inversely proportional to the environmental impact using the principle that each individual item recycled will lower the overall environmental impact of that item. The score is calculated by the following equation:

Score in points (S) = ((ICZIM)-I) * 100, where: IM = Items recycled in monitoring period IC = Items recycled in current period

The bonus score is a set score that the user is allocated should they hit their target. Bonus Score = the percentage increase in recycled items, based on the initial monitoring period, which has been set as the target, for example, should a 20% increase target be achieved this would result in a bonus 20 points scored. This score is stored in the module's memory and date tagged for future reference. At some pre-determined time period a data transfer request GUI is shown on the screen 132 and/or the speaker 134 could make an audible request to have data transferred to the reader 11 or direct into the user's personal computer 14 linked to a specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The user can then transfer all the recorded recycling data stored on the module 130 to reader 11 or personal computer 14 via a direct cable connection, a wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or via manual data input by the user.

There may be situations where unusual activity is recorded by the module; this may be because of legitimate or absent-minded reasons or because of an attempt to cheat the system. The module 130 is programmed with some responses in the case of detecting such unusual activity. For example, if the module 130 has not registered any usage for an abnormal period (for example, more than 4 days) then this may be because the user has gone on holiday or removed the module 130 from the recycling box. In this instance, the module 130 may give out an alarm sound at random times to catch the user's attention and remind then to place the module 130 back on the box. The next time the module 130 senses activity then a check sequence would be employed to ask the user to explain the unusual activity. Alternatively, the user may repetitively throw the same item in the recycling bin, or continuously tap the module 130 on the head, so to appear to be recycling more. In this instance should the module 130 detect more than 5 items being recycled in a 5-minute period then a further check sequence would be employed to ask the user to explain the unusual activity again. Although there is little way to prevent cheating completely this is designed to use the user's conscience against them to prevent misuse of the system.

There is also the possibility of the user forgetting to take the module 130 off the recycling box when putting out their recycling bin for the authorities to collect. In this instance the module 130 could have a sensor that detects movement and an alarm/reminder be activated should the module 130 sense motion i.e. being picked up and carried.

In the case of low battery power a special warning is shown on the screen 132 and an audible sound emitted from the speaker 134 on a regular basis; this encourages the user to safeguard the data by downloading it to their reader 11 as well as replacing the batteries. Data can be stored on the module 130 without the main battery power for a limited period.

If the user wants to move the module 130 to another recycling box or wants to restart the challenge then the module 130 can be reset using the reset switch. Effectively the module 130 would require initialisation again.

The reader 11 is shown in more detail in Figure 16. This portable module acts as an interface between the user's behaviour monitoring modules, a personal computer 14 and the specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or specific software download. The reader 11 can display the data that has been received from the behaviour monitoring modules on the screen as well as be a source of entertainment for users including, but not limited to, different games, challenges, activities and/or different animations. The reader 11 has the ability to be able to download stored data from the behaviour monitoring modules (the electronic toy modules) to the reader 11, store and record this information within the reader 11, display this information in a variety of formats either through the GUI on screen 141 or through sounds/messages emitted, upload data from the reader 11 to a personal computer 14 with either internet access to the specific internet site or the necessary software installed to allow users to be rewarded for their actions recorded in the data, download data to the reader 11 (such as, but not limited to, new modules, sounds, screens, environments, games, challenges, activities) from a personal computer 14 with either internet access to the specific internet site or the necessary installed software to the reader 11 to allow users to be further rewarded based on data contained within the specific internet site or the necessary installed software, display a user specific profile based on the data downloaded from either the individual behaviour monitoring modules, or data downloaded from a personal computer 14 based on information received from the specific internet site or from the necessary installed software. The reader 11 can be in the form of a mobile phone or a remote control shaped module but could also take any shape, and is known as the MSl but could be called any name. The technology needed to download as well as upload data from the behaviour monitoring modules to the central reader 11 and onto the personal computer 14 has previously been described.

The reader 11 is sold in product packaging either individually or with one or more of the behaviour monitoring modules, comes with full instructions for use and a uniquely coded registration card enabling the user to register their reader on a specific internet site accessible on a remote server or to specific software made available through CD/DVD distribution or internet download. The reader 11 has three input switches 144, 145 and 146 and an infrared sensor 143. The reader 11 comprises a plastic casing 148 and has a speaker 147 and a battery enclosure 142 for carrying batteries as a power supply.

After purchase the user initiates the reader 11. First the reader 11 is turned on by removing a battery isolating strip. The reader 11 then requests some data input (the kind of data required is displayed on the screen 141). The data inputted includes the date, time and chosen language. The user then has personalisation options such as the ability to choose from a range of on-screen characters that appear during the animations and other graphic user interfaces (GUI) and to further personalise their reader 11 by giving their GUI on-screen a range of characteristics such as, but not limited to a name, a choice of clothes and accessories, a pet to look after, a dwelling to live in and furnishings for their dwelling. The user can then initialise and install the behaviour monitoring modules that came with the reader 11 (full details of initialising the behaviour monitoring modules are described above). Once the reader 11 and behaviour monitoring modules are both installed and initiated then the user is prompted, through the reader screen 141 and/or an emitted sound, to register the behaviour monitoring modules with the reader 11 to allow data downloads to occur in the future. Each behaviour monitoring module is registered with the reader 11 through the reader 11 being bought into close proximity to the behaviour monitoring module. Through either a direct cable connection, wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or through manual user inputting the reader 11 acknowledges the behaviour monitoring module and logs this integrated module as belonging to/registered with that specific reader 11. Each behaviour monitoring module can only belong to/be registered with a single reader 11 , unless the reader 11 is lost or renewed when the behaviour monitoring module can be reset and can be then registered with the same or a new reader 11.

Should the user wish to reset their reader 11 then this can be done but the initialisation process will need to be repeated. The reader 11 is a portable module that the user can carry around with them and interact with from any location. Examples of where the reader 11 can be kept include, but not limited to the user's pocket, clipped to the user's clothing or bag, clipped onto a key ring, or worn around the user's neck on a lanyard.

At some pre-determined time period data transfer request GUI is shown on the screen 141 and/or the speaker 147 could make an audible request to have data transferred from one of the registered behaviour monitoring modules to the reader 11 and then transferred to a personal computer 14 and the specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or specific software download. The reader 11 will transfer all the recorded data stored on the behaviour monitoring module to the reader 11 and then in turn the user will transfer this data to the user's personal computer 14 and the specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or specific software download via either a direct cable connection, wireless connection such as infrared, radio or other technology, or through manual user inputting the central reader data into the personal computer 14.

In the case of low battery power a special warning is shown on the screen 141 and an audible sound emitted from the speaker 147 on a regular basis; this encourages the user to safeguard the data by downloading all data on the reader 11 to their personal computer 14 and the specific internet site accessible on a remote server 16 or specific software download as well as replacing the batteries. Data can be stored on the reader 11 without the main battery power for a limited period.

If the user wants to give their reader 11 to someone else or wants to restart the challenge then the module can be reset using a reset switch. Effectively the reader 11 would require initialisation again.

Referring now to Fig. 17, there is depicted a schematic representation of the components of an illustrative monitoring module 150, which may comprise for example any of the aforementioned modules 20 to 130. The module comprises a circuit board 151 on which a processor 152, memory 153 and other circuitry are provided. In general terms, the processor 152 comprises data processing means (that is to say, any means for processing data) and may for example comprise a microcontroller, integrated circuit processor or any other type of computing resource that is capable of controlling the module and processing collected data. The memory 153 functions as a means for storing data and instructions for the processor, and may comprise read-only memory, random-access memory or any combination thereof. The memory may also or alternatively comprise a hard disk data storage device or solid state storage device.

The circuit board 151 is coupled to a display screen 154 that is controlled by the processor to display inter alia, data, instructions and/or calculations to a user of the module. Power for the module is provided by a power supply unit 155 which may be embodied as a battery, preferably a rechargeable battery, as a battery in combination with a recharging device such as a photovoltaic panel (not shown), or by any other means for supplying electrical power.

The module 150 may comprise, where necessary or efficacious for the particular monitoring function that the module is to accomplish, an input interface 156 that is coupled to the circuit board 151 and by means of which a user can input instructions to the module or otherwise control the module. In one illustrative arrangement the input interface could comprise one or more buttons, switches, dials or any combination of these.

The module also includes a control interface 157, which may comprise a power on/off selector switch to enable the module to be powered down when not in use, and a reset switch that a user can operate to reset the module to its original "out of the box" condition.

The circuit board is also coupled to a data transfer module 158 which may comprise a transmitter for transmitting data (and/or instructions) to other devices, for example to the data transfer unit, and optionally a receiver for receiving data or instructions from other devices. The data transfer module 158 may comprise a short range radio interface (such as a Bluetooth™ interface), a wireless data transfer interface (such as a GSM, UMTS or other mobile telephony interface), a Wi-Fi interface or an infrared interface.

An input/output interface 159 is also provided and may comprise a USB interface (for connection of the module to a computing resource, another module or indeed to the data transfer unit), an RS232 interface, a serial interface or any other type of data transfer interface.

Lastly, the module 150 also comprises a sensor module 160 that functions as device for collecting data that is indicative of user behaviour, for example data pertaining to usage of a resource (such as water, electricity, fuel etc.). The sensor module 160 may be wholly within the module 150, or may interface with one or more external sensing components. Many different types of sensor have been disclosed in the application, and the particular sensor chosen for any given module will depend on the function that the module as a whole is to perform.

As will be appreciated by persons skilled in the art, the display screen 154 (and/or the data transfer module 158, and/or I/O interface 159) functions as a means for outputting information, for example to a user. That information may comprise data, or in another preferred embodiment the information output is a calculated indication of user behaviour, in particular user usage of a resource. The display screen may also be configured to display games or animation, for example to reflect how successfully the user of the system is changing their behaviour in relation to usage of resource.

Referring now to Fig. 18, there is depicted a schematic representation of the components of an illustrative handheld common data transfer unit configured as a reader 11. The data transfer unit comprises a circuit board 161 on which a processor 162, memory 163 and other circuitry are provided. In general terms, the processor 162 comprises data processing means (that is to say, any means for processing data) and may for example comprise a microcontroller, integrated circuit processor or any other type of computing resource that is capable of controlling the data transfer unit and optionally processing collected data. The memory 163 functions as a means for storing data (in particular, data and/or calculations retrieved from modules 150) and instructions for the processor, and may comprise read-only memory, random-access memory or any combination thereof. The memory may also or alternatively comprise a hard disk data storage device or solid state storage device.

The circuit board 161 is coupled to a display screen 164 that is controlled by the processor to display inter alia, data, instructions and/or calculations and/or scores to a user of the data transfer unit. Power for the data transfer unit is provided by a power supply unit 165 which may be embodied as a battery, preferably a rechargeable battery, as a battery in combination with a recharging device such as a photovoltaic panel (not shown), or by any other means for supplying electrical power.

The data transfer unit 11 may comprise an input interface 166 that is coupled to the circuit board 161 and by means of which a user can input instructions to the module or otherwise control the module. In one illustrative arrangement the input interface could comprise one or more buttons, switches, dials or any combination of these.

The data transfer unit 11 also includes a control interface 167, which may comprise a power on/off selector switch to enable the module to be powered down when not in use, and a reset switch that a user can operate to reset the module to its original "out of the box" condition. The circuit board 161 is also coupled to a data transfer module 168 which may comprise a receiver for receiving data (and/or instructions) from other devices, for example from the behaviour monitoring modules, and optionally a transmitter for transmitting data or instructions to other devices. The data transfer module 168 may comprise a short range radio interface (such as a Bluetooth™ interface), a wireless data transfer interface (such as a GSM, UMTS or other mobile telephony interface), a Wi-Fi interface or an infrared interface.

An input/output interface 169 is also provided and may comprise a USB interface (for connection of the data transfer unit to a computing resource (for example for uploading data, calculations or scores to a web resource)), an RS232 interface, a serial interface or any other type of data transfer interface. The data transfer unit 11 also comprises, in the preferred arrangement, an audio interface 170 for providing a user with audio alerts or instructions.

Lastly, the data transfer unit 11 can, in one preferred embodiment, also comprise a sensor module 160 - in particular a walking module such as a pedometer - that functions as device for collecting data that is indicative of user behaviour, for example data pertaining to usage of a resource. The sensor module 160 may be wholly within the module 150, or may interface with one or more external sensing components.

As with the module depicted in Fig. 17, the display screen 164 (and/or the data transfer module 168, and/or I/O interface 169) functions as a means for outputting information, for example to a user. That information may comprise data, or in another preferred embodiment the information output is a calculated indication of user behaviour, in particular user usage of a resource. The display screen may also be configured to display games or animation, for example to reflect how successfully the user of the system is changing their behaviour in relation to usage of resource. In another envisaged implementation the data transfer unit may be configured to be capable of transmitting data to modules, to be capable of transmitting or receiving data to or from another data transfer unit, or to be capable of downloading data from a remote web resource. For example, the reader may be configured to be capable of downloading material such as icons or games from a remote web resource in the event that a user should successfully reduce their usage of one or more resources.

The above embodiments are to be understood as illustrative examples of the invention. Further embodiments of the invention are envisaged. For example, although each of the behaviour monitoring modules described above is enclosed in a plastic casing, it will be appreciated that any other suitable material could be used for the casing in place of plastic, such as rubber. Alternatively, the plastic casing may be covered by another material such as rubber or fabric, such as plush fabric. The plastic casing does not have to be moulded and could be formed by any other manufacturing technique.

Whilst the data transfer process has been described above as taking place via a reader 11 and/or via a personal computer 14 and/or remote server 16, it will be appreciated that the behaviour monitoring modules could transfer data directly between one another. Such data transfer could take place wirelessly or by means of a cable.

It is to be understood that any feature described in relation to any one embodiment may be used alone, or in combination with other features described, and may also be used in combination with one or more features of any other of the embodiments, or any combination of any other of the embodiments. Furthermore, equivalents and modifications not described above may also be employed without departing from the spirit and scope of the invention.

Claims

1. A unified set of modules comprising a plurality of behaviour monitoring modules for monitoring user behaviour in relation to environmental impact and for outputting information relating to the monitored user behaviour, wherein each of said plurality of behaviour monitoring modules comprises: at least one behaviour data collecting device for collecting behaviour indicating data relating to user behaviour; data storage means for storing program data providing at least one calculation function for calculating a behavioural output on the basis of behaviour indicating data; data processing means for applying said at least one calculation routine for calculating one or more behavioural outputs based on behaviour indicating data collected by said behaviour collecting device; and output means for outputting monitoring information based on the one or more calculated behavioural outputs, wherein the set of modules includes a plurality of different types of module, each respective type of module being adapted for monitoring a different user behaviour.

2. A set according to claim 1, wherein said set of modules is at least partly unified by each of said plurality of different types of module sharing at least one physical characteristic in common.

3. A set according to claim 2, wherein said plurality of different types of module each comprise an outer housing and said at least one physical characteristic comprises a common outer housing characteristic.

4. A set according to claim 3, wherein said plurality of different types of module each comprise a moulded outer housing.

5. A set according to claim 3 or 4, wherein said plurality of different types of module each comprise a display screen in the respective outer housing.

6. A set according to any preceding claim, further comprising a common data transfer unit for said modules, wherein said set of modules is at least partly unified by each of said plurality of different types of module comprising a data transfer means for transferring data with said common data transfer unit.

7. A set according to claim 6, wherein said common data transfer unit is a handheld device adapted to transfer data via a data communications link with a data communications network server.

8. A set according to claim 7, wherein each of said plurality of different types of module is adapted to transfer user behaviour data to said common data transfer unit.

9. A set according to any of claims 6 to 8, wherein each of said plurality of different types of module is adapted to transfer user behaviour target data from said common data transfer unit.

10. A set according to any preceding claim, wherein said plurality of different types of module each comprise an outer housing and are differentiated by at least one differentiating outer housing characteristic.

11. A set according to claim 10, wherein said at least one differentiating outer housing characteristic comprises one or more of an outer housing shape, an outer housing colour and an outer housing pattern.

12. A set according to any of claims 3, 4, 5, 10 and 11, wherein said plurality of different types of module each comprise an outer housing representing a different human-like or animal-like character.

13. A set according to any of claims 3, 4, 5, 10, 11 and 12, wherein said at least one differentiating outer housing characteristic comprises an outer housing support characteristic, whereby different ones of said plurality of different types of modules may be differently supported when in use.

14. A set according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of said plurality of different types of modules is an educational device and wherein said output information includes educational output information relating to the user behaviour monitored by the device.

15. A set according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of said plurality of different types of module is a children's toy product.

16. A set according to any preceding claim, wherein at least one of said plurality of different types of module comprises a game playing function.

17. A behaviour monitoring module for monitoring user behaviour in relation to environmental impact and for outputting information relating to the monitored user behaviour, wherein said behaviour monitoring module is a self-contained module adapted to be mounted to a vehicle and comprises: a motion detector for generating motion indicating data relating to the vehicle; data storage means for storing program data providing at least one behavioural data calculation function; data processing means for applying said at least one behavioural data calculation function to data derived from motion indicating data generated by said motion detector to generate one or more behavioural outputs; and output means for outputting monitoring information based on the one or more calculated behavioural outputs.

18. A module according to claim 17, wherein said data storage means is for storing program data providing an operational state detection function, and wherein said data processing means is: a) for applying said operational state detection function to motion indicating data generated by said motion detector to generate vehicle operational state data; and b) for applying said at least one behavioural data calculation function to vehicle operational state data generated by said operational state detection function to generate said one or more behavioural outputs.

19. A module according to claim 18, wherein said operational state detection function comprises an approximate speed detection function which is adapted to detect an approximate speed of the vehicle.

20. A module according to claim 18 or 19, wherein said operational state detection function comprises an engine state detection function which is adapted to detect whether an engine in the vehicle is on or off.

21. A module according any of claims 17 to 20, wherein said behavioural data calculation function comprises an average speed calculation function which is adapted to calculate an average vehicle speed for at least part of a journey.

22. A module according any of claims 17 to 21, wherein said behavioural data calculation function comprises a journey time function which is adapted to calculate an approximate journey time for at least part of a journey.

23. A module according any of claims 17 to 22, wherein said behavioural data calculation function comprises an approximate distance calculation function which is adapted to calculate an approximate journey distance for at least part of a journey.

24. A module according any of claims 17 to 23, wherein said behavioural data calculation function comprises an approximate vehicle emissions calculating function, and wherein said data processing means is for applying said approximate vehicle emissions calculating function to calculate an approximate emissions amount relating to use of the vehicle for at least part of a journey.

25. A module according to claim 24, comprising an input means for inputting a vehicle engine characteristic, wherein said approximate vehicle emissions calculating function takes said vehicle engine characteristic as an input parameter.

26. A module according to claim 25, wherein said vehicle engine characteristic is an approximate engine size characteristic, a gearbox characteristic or a fuel type characteristic.

27 A module according any of claims 17 to 26, wherein said module is adapted to be mounted to said vehicle independently of any vehicle monitoring means otherwise mounted to the vehicle.

28. A module according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the motion detector is a multi-direction vibration sensor.

29. A module according to claim 17 or 18, wherein the motion detector is GPS enabled.

30. A module according claim 17, wherein the monitored behavioural information is outputted periodically during the course of a journey.

31 A behaviour monitoring module for monitoring user behaviour in relation to environmental impact and for outputting information relating to the monitored user behaviour, wherein said behaviour monitoring module is adapted to be mounted in a washing area and comprises: a liquid detector for generating a liquid detection signal relating to the presence of liquid in the washing area; a user presence detector for generating a user presence signal relating to user presence in the washing area; and output means for outputting monitoring information derived from both liquid detection signals generated by said liquid detector and human presence signals generated by said human presence detector.

32. A module according to claim 31, further comprising: data storage means for storing program data providing at least one behavioural data calculation function; and data processing means for applying said at least one behavioural data calculation function to data derived from liquid detection signals generated by said liquid detector and user presence signals generated by said user presence detector to generate one or more behavioural outputs, wherein the output means is for outputting monitoring information based on the one or more calculated behavioural outputs.

33. A module according to claim 31 or 32, wherein the module is a self-contained module adapted to be mounted to a washing area surface.

34. A module according to claim 32, wherein said data storage means is for storing program data providing an operational state detection function, and wherein said data processing means is: a) for applying said operational state detection function to flow indicating data generated by said flow detector to generate in use and out of use state data of the washing area; and b) for applying said at least one behavioural data calculation function to washing area state data generated by said operational state detection function to generate said one or more behavioural outputs.

35. A module according to any of claims 32 to 34, wherein said data storage means is for storing program data providing an occupancy state detection function, and wherein said data processing means is: a) for applying said person presence detection function to washing area indicating data generated by said person presence detector to generate occupied and unoccupied state data of the washing area; and b) for applying said at least one behavioural data calculation function to washing area state data generated by said person presence detection function to generate said one or more behavioural outputs.

36. A module according to any of any of claims 31 to 35, wherein the module further comprises a means for identifying a person occupying the washing area.

37. A module according claim 36, wherein the means for identifying a person is a selector switch.

38. A module according to claim 36 or 37, wherein the said calculated behavioural output is person specific.

39. A module according to claim 34, wherein the operational state detection function comprises an approximate washing time detection function which is adapted to detect an approximate washing time of a washer.

40. A module according to claim 34 or 39, wherein said operational state detection function comprises a washing apparatus state detection function, which is adapted to detect whether a washing apparatus is in use or out of use.

41. A module according to any of claims 31 to 40, wherein said behavioural data calculation function comprises an approximate water consumption calculating function, and wherein said data processing means is for applying said approximate water consumption calculating function to calculate an approximate water consumption relating to use of the washing apparatus for at least part of a wash.

42. A module according to any of claims 31 to 41, wherein said module is adapted to be mounted to a washing area surface independently of any washing monitoring means otherwise mounted to the washing area surface.

43 A behaviour monitoring module for monitoring user behaviour in relation to environmental impact and for outputting information relating to the monitored user behaviour, wherein said behaviour monitoring module is a self-contained module adapted to monitor an artificial light source and comprises: a light detector for detecting ambient light in the area to provide a light detection signal; data storage means for storing program data providing at least one behavioural data calculation function and a light source discrimination function, wherein the light source discrimination function is adapted to provide light source discrimination data for discriminating whether light detected by the light detector in the area is from natural daylight or an artificial light source; data processing means for applying said at least one behavioural data calculation function to data derived from light detection signals provided by said light detector and said light source discrimination data provided by said light source discrimination function to generate one or more behavioural outputs; and output means for outputting monitoring information based on the one or more calculated behavioural outputs.

44. A module according to claim 43, wherein said light source discrimination function comprises a time-of-daylight estimation function, and the light source discrimination function is adapted to estimate whether light in the area is from natural daylight or an artificial light source based on the time-of-daylight estimation function.

45. A module according to claim 44, wherein the time-of-daylight daylight estimation function is adapted to estimate times at which there is daylight based on a stored time-of-daylight data which varies with date.

46. A module according to claim 45, wherein said time-of-daylight data is based on location.

47. A module according to any of claims 43 to 46, further comprising a user presence detector for detecting user presence in an area to provide a user presence indicating signal, and wherein said data processing means is for applying said at least one behavioural data calculation function to data derived from a user presence indicating signal provided by said user presence detector to generate said one or more behavioural outputs.

48 A module according to any of claims 43 to 47, wherein said behavioural data calculation function comprises an approximate energy consumption calculating function, and wherein said data processing means is for applying said approximate energy consumption calculating function to calculate an approximate energy consumption amount relating to use of the light source for at least part of a duration.

49 A module according to claim 48, comprising an input means for inputting an energy consumption characteristic, wherein said approximate energy consumption calculating function takes said energy consumption characteristic as an input parameter.

50. A module according to claims 44 and 47, wherein the behavioural data calculation function further derives data relating non-deal usage of an unnatural light source based on the data from the light source discrimination function and the user presence indicating signal.

51. A module according to claim 50, wherein the output means output a warning when the behavioural data calculation function detects a non-ideal usage of a light source.

52. A module according to any of claims 43 to 51, wherein said module is adapted to be mounted to a surface of said room independently of any other artificial light source monitoring means.

53. A module according to any of claims 43 to 52, wherein the monitored behavioural output information is outputted periodically.

54. A monitoring system for monitoring environmental impact comprising: a first set of user behaviour monitor modules for monitoring user behaviour in relation to resources, each said module comprising: user behaviour monitoring means for monitoring user behaviour in relation to a resource and generating user behaviour data; and module data transfer means, wherein the system further comprises: a first handheld common data transfer unit comprising monitoring data transfer means, wherein the modules are adapted to transfer the monitored user behaviour data to the common data transfer unit transfer means via the module data transfer means and the monitoring data transfer means.

55. A system according to claim 54, further comprising: a second set of user behaviour monitoring means for monitoring user behaviour in relation to resources; a second handheld common data transfer unit for said second set of user behaviour monitoring means; and comparing means for comparing user behaviour data from the first handheld common data transfer unit with user behaviour data from the first handheld common data transfer unit.

56. A system according to claim 55, wherein the comparing means is for comparing user behaviour data from a first group of handheld common data transfer units, the first group including the first handheld common data transfer unit, with user behaviour data from a second group of handheld common data transfer units, the second group including the second handheld common data transfer unit.

57. A system according to claim 56, wherein the comparing means is at least partly comprised in said first handheld common data transfer unit and/or said second handheld common data transfer unit.

58. A system according to any of claims 54 to 57, further comprising a network processing system and wherein the handheld common data transfer unit further comprises network data transfer means and the common data transfer unit is adapted to transmit data derived from the monitored user behaviour data to the network processing system via the network data transfer means and a public data communications network.

59. A system according to any of claims 55 to 57, and claim 58, wherein the comparing means is at least partly comprised in said network processing system.

60. A system according to claim 58 or 59, wherein the monitoring system stores historical trend data derived from the monitored user behaviour data.

61. A system according to claim 60, wherein the monitoring system sets targets for a user based on the historical trend data.

62. A system according to any of claims 54 to 61, wherein the monitoring system sets targets for a user based on user input.

63. A system according to claim 61 or 62, wherein a set target is communicated to a module from a handheld common data transfer unit.

64. A monitoring system for monitoring environmental impact comprising: a first set and a second set of user behaviour monitor modules for monitoring user behaviour in relation to resources, each said module comprising user behaviour monitoring means for monitoring user behaviour in relation to a resource and generating user behaviour data; and comparing means for comparing user behaviour data from the first set of modules with user behaviour data from the second set of modules.

65. A system according to claim 64, wherein the comparing means is for comparing user behaviour data from a first group of sets of modules, the first group including the first set of modules, with user behaviour data from a second group of sets of modules, the second group including the second set of modules.

66. A system according to claim 64 or 65, wherein the first and second set of modules each have an associated common data transfer unit and said comparing means is at least partly comprised in at least one or said common data transfer units.

67. A system according to any of claims 64 to 66, further comprising a network processing system and wherein the monitoring system is adapted to transmit data derived from the monitored user behaviour data to the network processing system via the network data transfer means and a public data communications network, wherein said comparing means is at least partly comprised in said network processing system.

68. A system for monitoring usage of resources by a user, the system comprising a plurality of modules that are each for monitoring usage of a different resource, each said module comprising: a sensor module for monitoring usage of a resource, the sensor module being configured to generate data relating to usage of the resource, said data being indicative of a user's behaviour in relation to usage of that resource; a data storage module for storing data generated by said sensor module; a processor configured to apply a calculation function to data stored in said data storage module to derive an indication of usage of the resource; and an output interface for providing a user of the module with the indication of resource usage calculated by said processor.

69. A system according to Claim 68, further comprising a data transfer unit that is capable of interfacing with one or more of said plurality of modules to collect, from each said module, information pertaining to usage of the resource monitored by that module.

70. A system according to Claim 68 or 69, further comprising a remote repository for indications of resource usage.